New York City is turning its LinkNYC street kiosks into impromptu stadiums for the 2026 World Cup, beginning June 19. The municipal network will broadcast every U.S. match on 55‑inch screens at roughly 200 locations, letting pedestrians watch the games without spending a dime.
Mayor Zohran Mamdani emphasized that the program is about making the tournament accessible to everyone, turning sidewalks into communal viewing spaces. “Residents can enjoy the action right where they live, work and play,” he said.
A citywide sports experience
The free viewings will align with each Friday match day, culminating with the final on July 19, and will be spread across all five boroughs, though only about 10 percent of the 2,200 kiosks are equipped for the broadcasts.
LinkNYC has a history of public entertainment, having previously streamed NBA playoff games that followed the Knicks’ championship run, and the city has used the same infrastructure to display cooling‑center information during heat waves.
Beyond sports, the kiosks provide free Wi‑Fi, city maps, charging ports and even free domestic calls, serving as multifunctional hubs that address a range of civic needs.
Nick Colvin, CEO of LinkNYC, described the initiative as a way to inject spontaneity and delight into daily routines, turning ordinary street corners into moments of shared excitement.
The U.S. men’s soccer team is currently performing well in group play, with a match against Australia scheduled for 3 p.m. EST, adding extra anticipation for fans gathering at the kiosks.