International football supporters gathered in New York City's Times Square this week to chant for their teams ahead of the 2026 [1] FIFA World Cup.

The gathering highlights the global anticipation for the tournament as fans utilize high-visibility landmarks in the U.S. to build momentum for their national squads.

Reports from the scene indicate a diverse mix of supporters. Al Jazeera said fans from Algeria, Argentina, and France gathered to chant in support of their respective national teams [1]. The atmosphere in the center of Manhattan served as a public demonstration of the sport's reach and the passion of the global fanbase.

Other reports suggest a different composition of the crowd. MSN said supporters of the Egyptian club Al Ahly were among those who gathered in Times Square [2]. While the primary focus of the event was the upcoming 2026 [2] tournament, the presence of club-level supporters underscores the intersection of national and club loyalty within the football community.

Times Square often serves as a hub for international celebrations and protests, making it a strategic location for fans to gain visibility. The event occurred as part of the lead-up to the 2026 [1] competition, which will see a significant influx of international visitors to the U.S. and its co-hosts.

Supporters used the opportunity to engage with other fans and create a festive environment in the heart of New York. The chants and displays of national pride were central to the gathering, reflecting the cultural significance of the World Cup beyond the pitch.

“Fans from Algeria, Argentina, and France gathered to chant in support of their respective national teams.”

The gathering in Times Square illustrates the early mobilization of global fanbases and the role of U.S. urban centers as staging grounds for international sporting fervor. Because the 2026 World Cup will be hosted across North America, these public displays signal the beginning of a massive logistical and cultural integration process as the U.S. prepares for an unprecedented scale of international sports tourism.