FIFA World Cup is no longer only an event about football for various city leaders in the US. The World Cup 2026 is a reason for mayors around the country to connect with the community and to boost their city’s image. Zohran Mamdani, Mayor of New York City, has become one of the most visible political boosters for the tournament.
A lifelong supporter of Arsenal football club, Mamdani has been hosting the World Cup livestreams with local traffic reports, fan interviews, and special guests, and last weekend he featured Gary Lineker, an ex-England forward, before the 2026 final.
The live streams of the tournaments also feature discussions about soccer and culture, including one about the political activism of the legendary Brazilian player Socrates, which has since been circulating in Brazil.
In San Jose, the city of the same name led by Mayor Matt Mahan, a public celebration for viewing parties held for the public in the San Pedro Square during the whole competition welcomed over 900 thousand fans, more than any previous events organized.
Los Angeles, Philadelphia, and Kansas City organized fan parties and civic celebrations across the tournament. The local government leaders, who were excited for the global event, saw the 2026 FIFA World Cup as a golden opportunity for local businesses, community activities, and to spruce up their cities to the world.
