Ivory Coast Selects Delaware as FIFA World Cup Base, Sparking West African Community Excitement The Ivorian national soccer team, known as Les Éléphants, has chosen Wilmington, Delaware, as its primary base for preparations ahead of the FIFA World Cup, generating enthusiasm among the local West African community. The team’s presence in the First State has become a focal point for residents and business owners with ties to Ivory Coast, highlighting the growing cultural and economic connections between the region and the West African nation. Les Éléphants are currently staying at the historic Hotel Du Pont in Wilmington, where a cultural display featuring Ivorian masks, drums, and traditional clothing has been set up to welcome players and visitors. The team’s stay has also included a celebratory event at Kenedougou Grill, one of two African restaurants selected to host a welcome gathering at Rodney Square on Sunday. Owner Lassana Sanoko expressed pride in the team’s presence, stating, “I’m very proud of them because I’m really happy to see them here and play the World Cup. I’m excited to make the food, to make them happy before the game.” This marks Ivory Coast’s first World Cup appearance since 2014, and community leaders have emphasized the significance of the team’s decision to base themselves in Delaware. Ajawavi Ajavon, founder and director of the Delaware Africa Chamber of Commerce, noted, “We have Morocco, Ghana, and Senegal also playing, but the fact that Ivory Coast chose Delaware is so immensely proudful.” Ajavon played a key role in welcoming the team by presenting a handcrafted wooden plaque to the president of the Ivorian Football Federation.#ivory_coast #delaware #hotel_du_pont #kenedougou_grill #ajawavi_ajavon
