Zohran Mamdani, New York City's first Muslim and Asian-American mayor, wore a custom-made kurta inspired by Arsenal's 2025-26 away kit during Eid al-Adha prayers in the Bronx on Wednesday, May 28, 2026 [1, 2, 3]. The bespoke garment, designed and supplied by Jason Andrew, co-founder of the Brooklyn Invincibles supporters club, adapted Arsenal's navy and red lightning bolt away shirt, prominently featuring the club's crest and sponsor logo [1, 4, 3].
Mamdani, 34, has been a longtime Arsenal supporter since age 10 and also holds shares in Spanish club Real Oviedo [1, 3]. Arsenal recently clinched the English Premier League title for the first time in 22 years, an achievement celebrated by fans worldwide in May 2026 [1, 4, 3]. Jason Andrew said of the kurta’s popularity, "It's going to be sold out because every fan who was on the fence about buying one this season is going to grab a piece of memorabilia" [4].
Mamdani connected symbols of Eid al-Adha's themes of sacrifice and community to his political vision. He said, "Today as we honor Prophet Ibrahim, Eid al-Adha reminds us that sacrifice is not a burden. It is an opportunity to see ourselves as part of something larger. To extend a hand to those who need it most" [3]. He also emphasized solidarity in his role as mayor: "I am honored to be New York City’s first Muslim Mayor and I am determined to lead through solidarity. Together, we are working to ensure every New Yorker can afford the groceries, housing, and child care they need. Our solidarity is our strength" [3].
The outfit received mixed reactions online, with social media showing a mix of praise and criticism [4]. Dr. Fatima Rajina noted Mamdani’s significance, saying, "He’s the first Muslim mayor of the most multicultural city in the world and also one of the most significant cities in the world. He’s disrupting a lot of things, socially, culturally, politically" [4].
Mamdani recently announced a lottery offering 1,000 New Yorkers the chance to buy $50 tickets for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which runs from June 11 to July 19 across the US, Mexico, and Canada, with the final at New Jersey's MetLife Stadium [1]. The lottery aims to provide more affordable access for locals ahead of the tournament [1].
