In New York’s ‘Little Palestine’, fans cheer for Spain in World Cup final

What the report says

Al Jazeera reported from Bay Ridge, Brooklyn, on July 18, 2026, that many football fans in New York’s Arab American community are backing Spain ahead of the FIFA World Cup final against Argentina. The neighbourhood, often called “Little Palestine,” has displayed flags, Palestinian symbols and team colours as the tournament nears its conclusion in nearby New Jersey.

The report focused on residents and business owners who linked their support for Spain to politics and identity. Zein Rimawi, chair of the Arab American Federation, told Al Jazeera he favours countries he sees as supportive of Palestinian causes. Bakery owner Talal Abdraboh and restaurant owner Mahmoud Kasem also said Spain’s stance toward Palestinians and shared historical or cultural ties made the team a popular choice locally.

Al Jazeera said the tournament has also been a point of Arab community solidarity in Bay Ridge. A record eight Arab teams took part in the 2026 World Cup, with Morocco reaching the quarterfinals and Egypt exiting in the round of 16. Kasem said he set up an outdoor screen and offered free falafel during major Arab team matches, drawing Palestinians, Lebanese, Moroccans, Jordanians and others together.

The article noted that not all Arab American fans are supporting Spain. Some are still backing Argentina because of Lionel Messi, while others have associated Argentina with Israel due to President Javier Milei’s pro-Israel policies and public support from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Al Jazeera also noted that Argentina’s players have not taken a position on the conflict.