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Robert Lewandowski Lights Up the Empire State Building in Honor of Poland’s Independence Day
FC Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski traded stadium floodlights for skyscraper lights as he illuminated New York’s Empire State Building in red and white to celebrate the 107th anniversary of Poland’s Independence Day.
From Scoring in Vigo to a Historic Ceremony in New York
He’s used to lighting up football stadiums across Europe, but this time Robert Lewandowski shone in the heart of Manhattan. Just hours after recording another hat-trick for Barcelona in Vigo, the Polish captain made a quick transatlantic trip to take part in a historic event hosted by the Polish Consulate in New York.
Accompanied by his wife Anna Lewandowska, the 37-year-old forward served as the guest of honor at a ceremony marking Poland’s 107th Independence Day, celebrated annually on November 11 by Polish communities worldwide.
In a powerful gesture of national pride, Lewandowski lit up the Empire State Building in the colors of Poland’s flag — white and red — becoming the first Polish celebrity ever to illuminate the iconic landmark. The moment symbolized not only his patriotism but also the growing global influence of Polish culture and sport.
A Tight Schedule Before Returning to National Duty
Following the event, Lewandowski held a private meeting with members of the Polish Young Professionals network at the consulate, where he discussed leadership, discipline, and the role of athletes as ambassadors of their nation. Shortly after, he boarded a flight from JFK Airport to Warsaw, where he is set to rejoin the Polish National Team for two crucial World Cup qualifying matches.
Poland, coached by Jan Urban, currently sits in second place in their qualifying group, three points behind the Netherlands, and will face both the Dutch and Malta in pivotal fixtures. With qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup on the line, all eyes will once again be on their captain, who remains the team’s emotional and tactical leader.
This brief but symbolic trip demonstrated that Robert Lewandowski’s influence extends far beyond the pitch. By lighting one of the world’s most famous buildings in Poland’s colors, the Barcelona star not only honored his homeland but also reminded the world why he remains one of football’s most respected figures — a player who continues to shine, whether under the stadium lights or in the skyline of New York City.
