Thousands of supporters endured lengthy queues outside New York New Jersey Stadium ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina.
The 82,500-capacity venue, hosting the showpiece match with kick-off scheduled for 15:00 local time (20:00 BST), implemented significantly enhanced security measures, partly due to the attendance of United States President Donald Trump, who is watching his only World Cup match in person.
Security for the final was overseen by the United States Secret Service, alongside the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), resulting in extended waiting times for fans entering the stadium.
BBC Sport understands some supporters were forced to queue for around two hours before gaining access.
Despite the delays, most fans reportedly experienced no issues once they reached the ticket scanning points and entered the stadium.
The security process involved two separate checkpoints, with the TSA operating airport-style screening equipment for both supporters and media.
One journalist reported being redirected to a different entrance after being informed that no security dogs were available to inspect bags at their original gate.
World Cup volunteers told BBC Sport that significantly more fans arrived well before kick-off than for any of the previous seven matches held at the stadium.
The stadium gates opened at 11:00 local time, four hours before the final, with additional entrances opened throughout the afternoon to help reduce congestion.
Despite the heavy queues, organisers do not expect any delays to kick-off or disruption to the World Cup final.
