World Cup Memorabilia Exhibit Offers Glimpse into Tournament History in NYC

As excitement builds for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, New York City recently played host to a unique exhibition celebrating the rich history of the global football spectacle. The event, organized by Match Worn Shirts, offered a rare opportunity for fans to view authentic memorabilia from some of the most memorable matches in World Cup history.

The free, three-day exhibit, which opened with a private reception last Thursday and concluded on Saturday, was held in the heart of the Big Apple. Attendees included Match Worn Shirts founders Bob and Tijmen Zonderwijk, alongside 2018 World Cup winner Blaise Matuidi, who famously lifted the trophy with France. The display aimed to bridge the gap between fans and the sport's storied past, allowing them to relive pivotal moments through tangible relics.

Among the prized items on display were numerous match-worn jerseys, each accompanied by detailed descriptions noting its significance, the year it was used, and the specific game. For instance, visitors could observe Kylian Mbappé's kit from France's triumphant 4-2 victory over Croatia in the 2018 final, providing a direct link to that historic occasion. The Zonderwijk brothers founded Match Worn Shirts in 2017, growing it into a platform that partners with over 300 clubs globally, driven by their mission to bring fans closer to the game through authentic, game-worn memorabilia.