World Cup Kickoff in NJ/NY: The 2026 FIFA World Cup starts Thursday with Mexico vs. South Africa at Estadio Azteca, and the final lands at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford on July 19—now temporarily branded “New York New Jersey Stadium.” Visa & Ticket Backlash: FIFA President Gianni Infantino pushed back on criticism over U.S. entry denials for a Somali referee and defended sky-high ticket pricing, saying FIFA can’t control government decisions and urging fans to “chill.” Local Soccer Culture: In Bloomfield, Varitage Brew Works is turning match-watching into a 39-day soccer party, while Queens’ 7 train is being celebrated as an “International Express” for immigrant communities and the game. Music Meets Sports: FIFA is leaning hard into star power—Shakira and Burna Boy headline the opening anthem “Dai Dai,” and the tournament’s halftime/finale buzz includes BTS at the July 19 showpiece. Pop Culture Crossover: Taylor Swift turned up at Knicks-Spurs Game 4 at MSG, wearing “Stevie Knicks” as New York completed a historic comeback. K-pop on the Move: BIGBANG announced a 20th-anniversary world tour that includes a stop at MetLife Stadium.