Filipino American artist and designer Rich Tu, tapped as the official poster artist for the FIFA World Cup 2026 New York New Jersey Host City, is now at the center of a major citywide cultural initiative aimed at bringing art and access to communities across all five boroughs.
Tu designed a free, artist-led poster activity guide launched in partnership with Mayor Zohran Mamdani, the New York New Jersey Host Committee and the Whitney Museum of American Art. The guide, available in English and Spanish, invites New Yorkers of all ages to explore themes of community, culture and team spirit during the World Cup.
Participants who complete the guide (or present a photo of it) can redeem free admission to the Whitney through July 31, while supplies last.
A Brooklyn-based creative director and multidisciplinary artist, Tu is known for bold, graphic storytelling that blends culture, identity and sport. His selection as the official host city poster artist for one of the world’s largest sporting events reflects both his design influence and his deep connection to New York City’s diverse communities. His involvement with FIFA 2026 grew from that role, positioning him to expand the visual identity of the tournament beyond stadiums and into neighborhoods.
“When I was a kid, I always loved activities that let my creativity run wild,” Tu said in a press statement. “It’s an honor to share my love of soccer and design with the city that I love.”
City officials said Tu’s work helps bridge global sports and local culture. “The World Cup is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to bring New Yorkers together,” Mamdani said, noting the initiative aims to ensure residents can participate in the excitement beyond match venues.
The activity guides will be distributed at watch parties, Open Streets events and community partner sites across the city, and are also available for download online.
Whitney Museum Director Scott Rothkopf said the collaboration aligns with the institution’s mission to expand access to the arts. He highlighted July 12 (part of West Side Fest) when admission will be free for all visitors.
Tu will also lead a special public program at the Whitney that day in collaboration with Poster House, as part of a broader weekend of cultural programming involving more than 20 arts organizations across Manhattan’s west side.
Organizers say the initiative underscores how the World Cup can serve as a platform not only for sports, but also for cultural exchange, creativity and community engagement – with Tu’s work helping to anchor that vision in New York City.
