Diaspora solidarity: NYC’s Argentinian and Bangladeshi communities rally for World Cup final

Residents in New York City’s Elmhurst and Kensington neighbourhoods are mobilising to support Argentina’s appearance in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final against Spain. In Elmhurst, Queens, known locally as “Little Argentina”, the community is reinforcing its cultural identity through street decorations, while in Kensington, Brooklyn, the rapidly expanding Bangladeshi diaspora has emerged as a significant base of support for the national team.

Christian Gimenez, a 40-year-old lifelong resident and owner of Rio de la Plata Bakery in Elmhurst, spearheaded the initiative to decorate streets with national colours. Gimenez noted that while the neighbourhood’s Argentinian population has dispersed since the 1970s, the block remains a focal point for football tradition. He emphasised that the commitment to the national team extends beyond the tournament, citing a permanent mural of Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona at his bakery as a symbol of enduring heritage.

Beatriz Jaime, 74, recalled the community’s reaction to Argentina’s 1978 World Cup victory over the Netherlands, which was broadcast at Madison Square Garden. She described returning to the neighbourhood to find it “loaded with people” celebrating, a sentiment that persists today. Henry Pachaco, 45, described the Elmhurst block as the city’s centre for Argentinian fans, offering a stadium-like atmosphere with closed streets, music, and outdoor televisions, providing a communal space that transcends the cost of attending matches in person.

In Kensington, Brooklyn, the Bangladeshi community has embraced support for Argentina, driven by historical ties and admiration for Messi. Shafiqul Alam, 66, a resident for 36 years, noted that large-screen televisions are set up in pedestrian squares, with crowds often moving inside his shop during inclement weather. Alam highlighted a mutual affection between the two nations, a connection strengthened by the diaspora’s growth, which has tripled in the last two decades and resulted in the election of the first Bangladeshi American to the New York City Council last year.

Sajid Bhuyan, 31, stated that he believes less than 90 percent of the local Bangladeshi community in Kensington does not back Argentina, citing Lionel Messi’s potential final match as a key driver for younger fans. Bhuyan, who experienced intense anxiety during Argentina’s recent comeback against England, expressed hope that the team’s resilience would continue in the final. The match is scheduled for Sunday in East Rutherford, New Jersey, marking a generational contest between Messi and Spanish prodigy Lamine Yamal.

Gimenez addressed recent incidents involving Argentinian fans, stating that such behaviour is not representative of the broader fan base. He emphasised an inclusive approach, asserting that support for the team is not contingent on race or ethnic background. This sentiment of acceptance resonates across both communities, uniting them in their support for Argentina as they prepare for the decisive match.

Spain secured their place in the final by defeating France 2-0 in the semi-finals on 14 July 2026 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The Spanish delegation held a press conference in New York on 18 July 2026, two days before the final, expressing determination to secure their first World Cup title in four tournaments.