New York, NY – Zohran Mamdani, the Democratic front-runner in New York City’s mayoral race, has proposed appointing a “World Cup czar” to oversee preparations for next summer’s global soccer tournament, co-hosted by New York and New Jersey. His goal: to ensure the city maximizes the tourism and economic benefits of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Speaking before business leaders at a Manhattan breakfast hosted by the Association for a Better New York, Mamdani described the World Cup as “the perfect opportunity to rewrite the narrative” of a post-pandemic tourism decline. He blamed federal policies under President Trump for deterring international visitors, citing rising boycotts and negative sentiment toward the U.S.
“Hotels report vacant rooms. Landmarks like the Empire State Building sometimes don’t even have a line,” Mamdani said. “The World Cup offers us the perfect chance to bring the world back to New York.”
A lifelong soccer fan and proud Arsenal supporter, Mamdani recalled playing for his high school team and name-dropped Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice and New York–born American star Timothy Weah. His enthusiasm for the sport, he said, reflects his belief that major international events can revitalize urban life and business.
Mamdani’s proposal includes hosting large-scale public viewing events, increasing funding for NYC’s tourism agency, and launching a digital map highlighting venues and activities tied to the World Cup. He emphasized that the tournament should “benefit every corner of our city,” not just Manhattan’s core.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, to be shared among the United States, Canada, and Mexico, will feature eight matches at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, including the final. Both New York City and New Jersey are official host partners under FIFA’s agreement.
Tourism experts project that New York will attract roughly 12 million international travelers in 2025, about 400,000 fewer than last year, a 17% drop from earlier forecasts. Mamdani warned that such trends could worsen without bold action.
The candidate also praised the legacy of former Mayor Michael Bloomberg and his deputy Dan Doctoroff, crediting them for using the city’s failed 2012 Olympic bid as a catalyst for long-term growth. “They saw it as an opportunity to transform the fabric of our city,” Mamdani said, applauding Bloomberg’s investments in green space and urban renewal.
The audience’s reaction was largely positive. Congressman Gregory Meeks, leader of the Queens Democratic Party, called Mamdani’s remarks “very good” and praised his focus on affordability, though he stopped short of an endorsement.
Meanwhile, Mamdani’s rivals, former Governor Andrew Cuomo, running as an independent, and Curtis Sliwa, the Republican candidate, spent the day campaigning on other issues, including public safety. All three candidates received public matching funds from the city’s Campaign Finance Board, but Mamdani’s campaign has already reached the $8 million fundraising cap, positioning him firmly for the November 4 election.
If elected, Mamdani’s handling of the 2026 World Cup could be one of his first major international tests as mayor, and a defining opportunity to showcase New York City to the world once again.
By The Midtown Times | Adapted from The New York Times
