Yellow shirts paint Queens as Ecuadorians celebrate World Cup 2026 debut in New York

Queens, New York, pulsed with Ecuadorian pride as hundreds of fans converged at Flushing Meadows Park for the official Fan Fest, marking the countdown to Ecuador's debut in the 2026 World Cup. The vibrant atmosphere was a testament to the strong connection the nation's diaspora feels to its team.

Yellow jerseys dominated the scene, worn by individuals, families, and groups of friends united in their support for "La Tri." The park buzzed with activity, hosting football matches and ecuavóley games, creating a microcosm of Ecuadorian culture. The air was filled with the aromas of traditional cuisine, with vendors serving ceviche, pinchos, and grilled corn, reporting a surge in business.

Among the entrepreneurs was José Rodríguez, a Cuenca native who has lived in New York for 14 years. He and his family run a four-year-old Ecuadorian food business in Queens, a venture born from a desire to share their culture through gastronomy. Rodríguez, who emigrated seeking better opportunities for his children, expressed pride in his family's professional development in the U.S.

For Ecuadorians living abroad, the World Cup in the United States transcends sport; it's a powerful reaffirmation of their national identity. "It's a pride and a feeling that moves you from the depths," Rodríguez shared. "It's spectacular to be here about to watch Ecuador's first World Cup match." His business planned to screen the games, fostering a communal viewing experience for the Queens Ecuadorian community, all united by the hope for a winning start.