New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill announced on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, that the state will host the base camp for the Moroccan national football team, the Lions of the Atlas, during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The announcement was made during a press conference at the New Jersey State House in Trenton.
According to the governor's office, the base camp will be located at a facility in Morris County, though specific details about the venue have not yet been disclosed. The Moroccan team will use the camp for training and accommodations during the tournament, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Morocco qualified for the 2026 World Cup after a strong performance in the CAF qualifiers, building on their historic run to the semifinals in the 2022 tournament in Qatar. The team is expected to arrive in New Jersey in early June 2026 to prepare for their group stage matches.
Governor Sherrill emphasized the economic and cultural benefits of hosting the team, stating that the event will boost local tourism and showcase New Jersey's diversity. The state has previously hosted international soccer events, including matches during the 1994 World Cup.
The 2026 World Cup will feature 48 teams for the first time, with matches scheduled across 16 cities in North America. New Jersey's MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford is one of the venues that will host tournament matches.
