Local leaders looking to ensure local businesses get a big economic slice of the World Cup will offer a piece of global inspiration during their Countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup networking event, June 10 at American Dream, when a sculpture honoring Brazilian soccer legend Pelé will be unveiled.
Countdown to the World Cup 2026, sponsored by the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and co-hosted by Evolvere, is an effort to help local businesses benefit from the World Cup, which is expected to bring an economic boost of $3 billion to the area.
In a continuing effort to show the World Cup blends art, culture and commerce, the organizers commissioned Italian sculptor Dante Mortet to create a work that honored perhaps the most famous soccer player of all, Pelé.
Mortet described it this way: “Everyone wanted Pelé’s feet. I asked for his hands, because they reveal the mind and the soul. My sculpture shows the number 10 going through a net, a metaphor for Pelé breaking through ignorance and opening doors for generations of Black and Brown athletes.”
Mortet, speaking from Rome during a recent media event, expressed his delight at having his work exhibited in New Jersey.
“The World Cup is coming back here, including the final in New Jersey, largely because Pelé made us fall in love with the most beautiful sport in the world. Thank you for giving me the chance to play my humble role in ensuring Pelé’s story continues to be told by displaying these sculptures in New Jersey for the first time.”
BCB Bank, which sponsored Mortet’s exhibition, is one of many local companies offering support for the event, which will be held at the GAMEROOM at American Dream. (Register for event here)
Hispanic Chamber CEO Carlos Medina said the Countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup networking event — the second the group has hosted — aims to make sure businesses are ready when the economic boom arrives.
“We are building connections that unite art, culture, and commerce,” he said. “The tribute to Pelé is part of our broader mission to inspire and activate local businesses.”
Chamber Chairman Luis de la Hoz, called the event a rallying cry for Latino businesses.
“Pelé was the first influencer before the era of social media,” he said. “He transcended generations and geography: our goal is to ensure our businesses do the same. This event is a call to action — Latino businesses are ready to compete and win, both on and off the field.”
Interested in attending? Click here for more information.
