New Jersey lawmakers are considering a temporary surcharge on sports betting tied to the 2026 FIFA World Cup as officials look for ways to cover the growing costs of hosting matches at MetLife Stadium.
The proposal, introduced by Democratic Senator Paul Sarlo and Assemblyman Michael Venezia, would add a 10% levy on online sportsbook revenue generated from bets related to World Cup games. The measure would apply during the tournament next summer, when the East Rutherford venue is set to host eight matches, including the final.
Under the plan, the surcharge would cover a wide range of World Cup betting markets, including match wagers and player prop bets. Operators would still pay existing state gaming taxes in addition to the temporary fee.
Lawmakers backing the measure say the additional revenue is needed to help offset the financial pressure linked to hosting one of the world’s biggest sporting events. Funds raised through the betting surcharge would go toward covering infrastructure, transportation, security, and other tournament-related expenses.
The sports betting levy is part of a broader package of temporary fees being discussed in New Jersey. The proposal also includes higher hotel occupancy charges, increased sales taxes in the Meadowlands area, and a rideshare surcharge for trips connected to the stadium district.
Governor Mikie Sherrill has defended the plan, arguing that visitors attending the tournament should contribute toward the costs created by the event rather than leaving residents to shoulder the burden alone.
Still, the proposal has drawn criticism from both Republicans and some Democrats. Opponents argue the state is walking back previous commitments against raising taxes and warn the added costs could hurt businesses and consumers during a period expected to bring a major tourism boost.
Questions have also been raised about how much New Jersey will ultimately spend to host the World Cup. Critics say officials have yet to fully explain the state’s obligations tied to transportation upgrades, security operations, and event logistics.
The debate reflects broader concerns across US host cities ahead of the 2026 tournament. Analysts have warned that while FIFA is expected to collect most of the revenue from ticket sales and commercial partnerships, local governments could still face significant public costs connected to staging the event.