(BELMONT PARK, NY) -- UBS Arena will host an International Soccer Watch Party, a public screening of two of the FIFA World Cup 26 (TM) matches on Friday, June 19 featuring USA v. Australia and Haiti v. Brazil. The fan-focused events will highlight all the excitement the tournament is bringing to the New York Metro area this summer and provide local residents with a unique way to experience these soccer matches together as a community.
Each event will have a full match day like experience while watching soccer live on the venue’s HDR scoreboard, which features the highest resolution center hung display technology in the state to bring excellent image clarity and contrast to fans in every seat, providing a viewing opportunity that can’t be found anywhere else. The event’s activities will be in collaboration with the New York Islanders, the New York Mets and New York City FC.
“UBS Arena was built to be a premier destination for world-class entertainment and community connection,” said Kelly Cheeseman, President of Business Operations for the New York Islanders and UBS Arena. “We are incredibly excited to open our doors to soccer fans across the New York Metro area to experience the energy of the international soccer showcase. This watch party is a testament to the power of sport in bringing people together, and we look forward to hosting a vibrant, inclusive celebration alongside our partners at the Mets and New York City FC.”
Fan interactive elements in the arena during the day’s events feature flag giveaways, national anthems for each participating country, face painting, t-shirt tosses, merchandise and prize pack opportunities, the Fogo Azul drumline will perform during the evening match and additional talent performances to be announced in the coming weeks. Special food and beverage options will be on site including local food vendors, family-friendly food packs and specialty items/drinks in support of the event.
“Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York is creating opportunities for communities across the state to come together and take part in major international events like this soccer watch party at UBS Arena. Bringing fans together on Long Island to experience these matches in a shared setting supports local engagement, celebrates cultural connections and showcases the region as a destination for world class events,” said Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight.
To honor Juneteenth, “Lift Every Voice and Sing” will be performed live prior to each match kickoff. Additionally, there will be video and graphic-based features showcased live throughout the matches to educate, reflect, and celebrate the historical significance of Juneteenth.
“Nothing brings people together like sports, and New York is proud to welcome soccer fans from around the world,” said New York State Senior Director of Major Event Operations Justin Brannan. "These gatherings give families, neighbors and visitors a chance to experience the tournament, cheer on their teams, and be part of the amazing energy of this global moment right here in New York.”
The New York Islanders, home tenants of UBS Arena, will be on site with their mascots Sparky and Nyisles, hockey activations and activities as well as Isles Lab, the team store, will also be open for fans.
New York City FC will be providing youth engagement opportunities and on-pitch activities on site at UBS Arena during both matches, which includes soccer clinics for local youth players at the mini pitch on the floor of the arena. The New York City FC Street Team will be on hand for additional soccer themed giveaways and promotions.
“This summer represents an incredible opportunity to celebrate the global game right here in New York, and we are excited to help bring that energy to fans across the region,” said Lauren Scrima, Vice President of Marketing for New York City FC. “Soccer has a special way of connecting people across cultures, communities and generations, and we’re proud to partner with UBS Arena to create a memorable match day experience for families and fans across the New York Metro area.”
The New York Mets will also be on site with special appearances by Mr. and Mrs. Met, performances from the Queens Crew as well as a special Kids Club pop-up activation.
“We’re excited to join our fellow New York teams at UBS Arena in celebrating one of the largest sporting events in the world and bringing fans together for a shared experience around international soccer,’ said Trisha Donlin, Vice President of Marketing at the New York Mets. “Events like this are a great way to connect with our community, engage young fans, and be part of the incredible energy the sport inspires across the region.”
Tickets for these screenings will be $10 inclusive of all fees and available for purchase online. Tickets for the 3:00pm game are available here and tickets for the 9:00pm game are available here.
Located in the heart of the expanding experiential destination of Belmont Park, UBS Arena is New York’s newest premier live entertainment and sports venue. Proud home to the New York Islanders, the state-of-the-art arena was developed in partnership with Oak View Group, the New York Islanders and Jeff Wilpon, and has welcomed over 3 million guests and 350+ events with top artists from around the world since November 2021.
Built with fan-first amenities, inspired by the timeless elegance of New York and powered by state-of-the-art technology, the venue is made for music and built for hockey with clear sightlines and premier acoustics. UBS Arena is at the forefront of sustainability, achieving Zero Waste TRUE Silver certification in addition to its LEED Green Building Certification and carbon neutrality for operations.
UBS Arena is located just 30 minutes by LIRR from Grand Central or Penn Station and is easily accessible from across the region via mass transit or car. To plan your trip, please visit UBSArena.com/plan-your-trip.
