Argentina’s New York fans share hopes before 2026 World Cup final

The Elmhurst neighbourhood in Queens, historically known as a hub for Argentinians who arrived during Argentina's political turmoil in the 1970s, has undergone significant demographic shifts over the decades. While fewer Argentinian businesses remain compared to earlier periods, the area continues to serve as a gathering point for fans during major football events. Christian Gimenez, a bakery owner and long-time resident, has been instrumental in organising neighbourhood decorations and maintaining cultural symbols, including a mural featuring Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona on his storefront.

For residents like Beatriz Jaime, the neighbourhood's football celebrations carry deep historical resonance. She recalls watching Argentina's 1978 World Cup victory broadcast at Madison Square Garden and returning to find the community celebrating throughout the night. Though many Argentinians have since dispersed to other areas, the football tradition continues to serve as a unifying force across generations.

Henry Pachaco describes the Queens block as the centre of Argentinian fandom in the city, offering fans a stadium-like atmosphere on match days with closed streets, music, outdoor television, and food vendors. The convergence of Argentina's World Cup final appearance with the tournament's proximity to New York holds particular significance for the community, especially given the possibility that Messi may be playing in his final national team match. Residents emphasise that the neighbourhood provides an accessible way for fans to experience the passion and unity characteristic of Argentinian football culture worldwide.