New York Construction Report staff writer
In preparation for FIFA World Cup 2026, Skanska has started work on a project to renovate the lower bowl of MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. The stadium and seating modifications will enlarge the playing field to meet the necessary FIFA size requirements, enabling the stadium to host eight games throughout the tournament, including the prestigious Final.
“We are thrilled to continue building upon our long-standing partnership with MetLife Stadium and to play an integral role in ensuring the stadium is well-equipped to host the upcoming FIFA World Cup,” said Sean Szatkowski, executive vice president, general manager, Skanska USA Building. “Having begun our initial work at MetLife Stadium in 2010, this latest undertaking poses the unique and exciting challenge of making the necessary adjustments needed to meet FIFA requirements.
“And we now know, this will include the honor of helping prepare the stadium to host the FIFA World Cup Final.”
The project scope includes demolition of four corners of existing precast seating throughout the stadium and the installation of a new modular steel composite seating system with related comprehensive mechanical, electrical, audio visual, and plumbing adjustments.
Also, the project includes the removal of 1,740 permanent seats to expand the field’s dimensions for FIFA World Cup 26 matches, and the replacement of those seats on the modular system which will maintain current NFL seating quantities and layouts.
Construction will be completed in two phases. Phase I commenced this past January and is projected for completion in May 2024. Phase II will begin in January 2025 and is projected to reach completion in May 2025.
Skanska completed the 2.2-million-sq. ft. MetLife Stadium in 2010, including construction of a technologically advanced open-air stadium with seats for 82,500 spectators, including 222 luxury suite boxes.
