15 June 2026

We feel most alive when we connect with other living beings. When the New York Knicks won their first NBA title in 53 years this weekend (GoNYGoNYGo!), fans came out from all corners of NYC to celebrate. Everyone I know who got caught up in it (whether they were a basketball fan or not) described the “after-party” as a magical experience.

Now, we have World Cup Soccer in our region - and across the US, Canada and Mexico. Forty eight countries Teams and fans from 48 countries converge on North America to celebrate “the beautiful game” and compete at the highest level.

Fun fact: billiards, lacrosse, cricket and rugby were all described as beautiful games, before this phrase became synonymous with football/soccer.

Pelé popularized the term with his 1977 autobiography, My Life and the Beautiful Game, although it likely originated from his Brazil teammate, Waldyr “Didi” Pereira, who coined the Portuguese “jogo bonito”. Regardless, it stuck and today gives all sorts of meaning to the game called soccer, football or fútbol around the world.

Historically, the game earned this nickname from its unique blend of skill, athleticism, teamwork, and passion. Since the first World Cup in 1930, though, the meaning has grown (at least in my mind) to include the beautiful aspect of many countries - and cultures - colliding and collaborating to promote a sport that unites them.

I was at the last North American World Cup (1994) and somehow snagged a volunteer position as the Irish team photographer (excellent seats)! This year’s line-up (the biggest ever!) includes: Algeria, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Cabo Verde, Canada, Colombia, Congo DR, Côte d’Ivoire, Croatia, Curaçao, Czechia, Ecuador, Egypt, England, France, Germany, Ghana, Haiti, Iraq, IR Iran, Japan, Jordan, Korea Republic, Mexico, Morocco, New Zealand, Netherlands, Norway, Panama, Paraguay, Portugal, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Scotland, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Senegal, South Africa, Tunisia, Türkiye, Uruguay, USA and Uzbekistan.

There are currently 195 countries in the world and the last number I could find from FIFA said they have 211 member nations and territories, so I think it’s fair to say most people on this planet are familiar with the sport. Why? Because it’s accessible and affordable (all you need is a ball and some space). And because FIFA uses some of the billions it earns (from ticket sales, merch, etc.) to support both the World Cup participating teams (each receives $12.5 million to get ready and show up) and football development at the grassroots level.

For me, the best part of the beautiful game is seeing how it brings people together. On the pitch (soccer field, to us Americans), when a player falls, a nearby player will always give a hand up - no matter if it’s a teammate or the opposition. When you go to the pub to watch the soccer, supporters from both teams coexist happily, sometimes at the same table. We are passionately competitive and compassionate too.

Just like football loyalties, people have strong feelings about food. Upbringing, access, experience and education all factor in. I am hoping that the convergence of cultures during this World Cup will increase exposure and result in not just a tolerance of one another, but an appreciation for how it enriches our own lives.

So whether you’d like to try the Canadian poutine, Mexican guacamole, or cuisine of any of the other 46 teams visiting, get curious about other cultures and foods. What are the foods that we have in common? What are the flavors that make a particular cuisine unique? You may just find your life richer and [belly] fuller for it.

PETA has published a list of vegan options at World Cup Stadiums. Sadly, no confirmed options at MetLife Stadium near NYC…but if you’re heading to Atlanta, Seattle, Dallas or Toronto and try them out, let me know how it was!

If you’re having your own World Cup watch party, it’s easy to make delicious plant based options. One of my favorites is nachos. Lots of veggies and black beans (or refried pintos) make them colorful and flavorful. My new favorite nacho cheese sauce is Chloe Coscarella’s Cashew Queso (from Chloe Flavor), but you can just as easily make it from potatoes and carrots.