Empire State Building’s Controversial Colors Anger New York Fans

This past Sunday, the Empire State Building was illuminated in the colors of the Patriots, much to the dismay of New York football enthusiasts, after New England secured a place in the 2026 Super Bowl.

New York City often lights up its famous landmarks to commemorate significant sports achievements, but this practice hasn’t come without its share of backlash.

On Sunday evening, the Empire State Building’s official X account proudly stated, “Go to Santa Clara! Shine” in honor of the Patriots clinching the AFC Championship.

Local fans reacted predictably, voicing their outrage over a New York icon showcasing a rival’s colors. One user expressed disbelief, writing, “Wait, are you kidding? You’re in New York! Do you think the buildings in Boston will be lit up green if the Jets win? I feel like I’m having a stroke.”

Another lamented, “There’s a zero percent chance Boston would do something like this to a New York team. It’s a disgrace.”

Calls for accountability emerged, with some demanding, “Someone needs to be fired.” This frustration prompted suggestions that New York City Mayor Zoran Mamdani should reconsider the practice altogether, as one user implored, “@NYCMayor can you please stop lighting up the Empire State Building to celebrate non-New York teams?”

In a small twist of fate, football fans could find some comfort knowing that the Empire State Building’s colors changed to Seattle’s green and blue shortly after, celebrating the Seahawks’ win in the NFC Championship. Interestingly, some connections existed there, as Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold previously played for the Jets.

Reflecting on the past, many New Yorkers were still scarred from 2023 when the Empire State Building showcased Eagles colors in another Super Bowl instance. This led local politicians, including a jab from the Sanitation Department, to publicly express their outrage.

“If you, like us, think this is betrayal, betrayal, and unforgivable, please wear black and white for #NewYorksStrongest,” the health department declared, adding, “We take out the trash every day… and next year that will include the Eagles.”