Mamdani made the comment while launching a new faster bus service in New York City, taking an unexpected detour from transport policy to football.
Question on extra time prompts football reference
While explaining how the new bus service would save commuters valuable time, a journalist asked the mayor how he would use the extra minutes if he had them.
Responding with a touch of sarcasm, Mamdani said: "With my extra six minutes, I would probably just watch the replays of Egypt getting robbed again and again yesterday. You know, just gotta throw up the VAR."
The remark was widely shared online, with football fans debating both the controversial refereeing decisions and the mayor's comments.
Former amateur football player and New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani joked about Egypt's World Cup round-of-16 loss to Argentina while speaking at an event announcing faster bus services.
— The Siasat Daily (@TheSiasatDaily) July 9, 2026
Referring to the extra six minutes commuters would save, Mamdani quipped, "With my… pic.twitter.com/i8cBZwUKjO
Controversy over Argentina-Egypt clash
Mamdani's comments come amid widespread criticism of several refereeing decisions during Argentina's victory over Egypt in the Round of 16.
Many fans and football pundits have questioned the use of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system, alleging that key decisions favoured Lionel Messi's Argentina.
The match has sparked intense debate on social media, with supporters of Egypt claiming their team was denied crucial calls at decisive moments.
Viral moment beyond politics
Although the event was focused on unveiling improvements to New York City's public transport network, Mamdani's off-the-cuff football remark quickly overshadowed the announcement online.
His comments have resonated with many football fans still debating the controversial World Cup encounter, adding a political voice to the growing discussion surrounding the match officiating.