New York — The Trade and Investment Section of the Consulate General of Pakistan in New York proudly participated in the Consulate Cup NYC 2025, a unique community soccer tournament held on June 28 at Flushing Meadows Corona Park. Organized in collaboration with the Mayor’s Office of New York, New York City Football Club (NYCFC), and numerous other diplomatic missions, the tournament brought together the international community in the spirit of sportsmanship and unity.
The event is part of the lead-up to the FIFA World Cup 2026, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, with New York set to host several high-profile matches. The Consulate Cup aims not only to build diplomatic camaraderie but also to promote access to soccer among underserved communities in NYC, with all proceeds supporting City in the Community, NYCFC’s official 501(c)(3) foundation.
Representing Pakistan on the field, Team Pakistan played four thrilling matches, securing victories against Denmark and the United States, while putting up a spirited performance in close contests against Guatemala and Australia.
The purpose of Team Pakistan’s participation extended beyond the field. The Trade and Investment Section aimed to raise awareness that Pakistan is the official manufacturer of the FIFA World Cup 2026 match ball, produced in Sialkot, a city renowned globally for its high-quality sports goods. To mark this contribution, specially manufactured footballs from Sialkot were gifted to the organizers, highlighting Pakistan’s excellence in sports manufacturing and its growing role in the global football ecosystem.
“We wanted to not only compete on the field, but also showcase Pakistan’s craftsmanship and leadership in the sports industry,” said the Trade and Investment Counselor. “Our participation was a tribute to the hardworking artisans of Sialkot and a celebration of Pakistan’s place in the world of football.”
The Consulate’s involvement in this meaningful event is part of its broader mission to promote economic diplomacy, cultural outreach, and brand Pakistan through sports, innovation, and people-to-people engagement.
