Football fever comes to New York with unveiling of France's World Cup jersey

· France 24

Football fever has hit New York City ahead of the World Cup. The official jersey for the French national team was unveiled this week at the French Consulate. Fanny Pradier, the events director, showcased the home kit on Park Avenue. “Details matter a lot,” she explained, showing off her red high heels.

Former French footballer Blaise Matuidi, who was part of France’s 2018 World Cup-winning team, attended the event, along with striker Peguy Luyindula and defender Sébastien Squillaci.

“Football – or soccer, as they say here – is growing so much in the US,” Matuidi told France 24. “You can really feel the excitement. And with the World Cup coming, it’s going to inspire a whole new generation of kids to play the game.” “We have the best players and the best coach,” Squillaci added.

Philippe Diallo, president of the French Football Federation, and Cédrik Fouriscot, Consul of France in New York, unveiled the new kit. “This colour is inspired by the Statue of Liberty – a gift from France to the United States. We thought it was the perfect symbol,” Diallo explained. French expats were thrilled.

Philippe Diallo (left), president of the French Football Federation, and Cédrik Fouriscot, Consul of France in New York, unveiled the new kit. © France 24

'We’re going to lift the trophy'

“It’s incredible – I’m so excited,” enthused one attendee. “I can’t wait for June and July. Vive la France!” “This year, we’re going to lift the trophy. We’re going to win it –  and I hope they win every match,” exclaimed another.

Fouriscot emphasised the broader significance of the tournament. “The World Cup is a huge celebration – truly a global celebration. We’re here in the United States in a year marking 250 years of Franco-American friendship. For us, it’s an extraordinary moment of celebration.”

Former French footballer Blaise Matuidi, who was part of France’s 2018 World Cup-winning team, attended the event, along with striker Peguy Luyindula and defender Sébastien Squillaci. © FRANCE 24

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Matuidi also reminisced about France’s 2018 World Cup victory and shared advice for young footballers. “What I want to say to young people is simple: believe in your dreams. I believed in mine, and I had the chance to experience something incredible – that feeling of becoming one with the entire French people. It was just magical, and I hope we’ll get to relive that again this year.”

France will play its opening match against Senegal on June 16 in New Jersey.