Airbnb invests $1 million for soccer mini-pitches in NY, NJ

BROOKLYN, N.Y. (PIX11) -- A major boost is underway for local communities as Airbnb invests $1 million alongside the FIFA World Cup New York New Jersey Host Committee to build five new soccer mini-pitches across the region.

The announcement was made during a lively event at Chelsea Piers Field House in Prospect Heights, Brooklyn, where community leaders, elected officials, and students gathered to celebrate the impact of the upcoming tournament.

Among those energized by the news is Aurum Lopez, a 16-year-old student at Brooklyn Prep High School.

He took part in a soccer clinic that featured coaches and Carli Lloyd, a two-time FIFA Women’s World Cup champion. “Junior Achievement had a collaboration with Brooklyn Prep and they got us to come out here to learn more about the partnership they have with my sport,” Lopez said. “I grew up playing soccer since I was seven years old and I just fell in love with the sport ever since.”

Reflecting on the clinic, Lopez added, “I think it was pretty cool that she came and she showed us who she was and how she loves soccer very much and how she loves the community.”

Alex Lasry, CEO of the New York New Jersey Host Committee, highlighted the importance of this event beyond the games themselves. “This World Cup is more than a moment in time—it’s a legacy-defining opportunity to create lasting economic and social impact for New York and New Jersey,” he said.

Airbnb’s Jay Carney, Global Head of Policy and Communications, shared projections for the tournament’s local economic effect. He said about 25,000 guests are expected to stay in Airbnb accommodations across the tri-state area, generating $288 million in economic impact. “We need people to be inspired and run up to it, kids to be playing for the first time, honing their skills and taking their members with them so that we produce in this region and around the best players in the world and future,” Carney said.

For Aurum Lopez, this moment carries deeper meaning. “I’m just grateful to be here,” he said, embodying the hope and opportunity the investment represents for young athletes and communities alike.