Future World Cup host cities gather in Doha for show-and-tell pow-wow
December 9 – FIFA has completed its World Cup Observer Program in Qatar, designed to give future hosts a taste of how FIFA expects its World Cups to play out.
The 3-day Doha program was attended by 180 people, with a particular focus on representatives from the host countries of the 2023 Women's World Cup in Australia/New Zealand, and the expanded 48-team Men's World Cup in 2026, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.
Participants visited various venues including the Accreditation Center, Volunteer Center, Tournament Headquarters, Stadiums, International Broadcast Center, Main Media Center, FIFA Fan Festival and training sites.
"The observer program is a key part of every FIFA World Cup and aims to provide those involved in the organization of future editions of the men's and women's tournaments, as well as the football community at broad sense, a better understanding of what it takes to successfully deliver the greatest spectacle in the world,” said Colin Smith, FIFA's Director of World Cup Operations.
“There were many productive exchanges here in Doha, so we are confident that attendees will leave Qatar with new thoughts, impressions, ideas, as well as a better appreciation of the magnitude of this event.”
Houston Sports Authority CEO Janis Burke said, "It was such a rewarding experience to be part of the future host city Qatar viewing program. This 'behind-the-scenes' look at the operational requirements of hosting the World Cup is a valuable learning opportunity as our preparations begin. We are committed to delivering an unparalleled World Cup experience in Houston, and 2026 will be here before we know it. We look forward to 'welcome the world to Houston and showcase our amazing and innovative city.'
Houston has big plans underway to ensure the 2026 World Cup serves as a catalyst for significant growth in the game, engaging millions of players and fans throughout South Texas.
The Harris County - Houston Sports Authority (HCHSA) has embarked on a major program of hosting and broadcasting major sporting events in its cities. In 2021 it was a hub for the Concacaf Gold Cup as it showcased its World Cup hosting credentials.
Earlier this year, HCHSA also celebrated its 25th anniversary, marking Houston's growth as a premier host city and a key player in the international sports community.
Contact the author of this story at moc.l1670592217labto1670592217ofdlr1670592217owedi1670592217sni@n1670592217osloh1670592217cin.l1670592217uap1670592217
December 9 – FIFA has completed its World Cup Observer Program in Qatar, designed to give future hosts a taste of how FIFA expects its World Cups to play out.
The 3-day Doha program was attended by 180 people, with a particular focus on representatives from the host countries of the 2023 Women's World Cup in Australia/New Zealand, and the expanded 48-team Men's World Cup in 2026, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.
Participants visited various venues including the Accreditation Center, Volunteer Center, Tournament Headquarters, Stadiums, International Broadcast Center, Main Media Center, FIFA Fan Festival and training sites.
"The observer program is a key part of every FIFA World Cup and aims to provide those involved in the organization of future editions of the men's and women's tournaments, as well as the football community at broad sense, a better understanding of what it takes to successfully deliver the greatest spectacle in the world,” said Colin Smith, FIFA's Director of World Cup Operations.
“There were many productive exchanges here in Doha, so we are confident that attendees will leave Qatar with new thoughts, impressions, ideas, as well as a better appreciation of the magnitude of this event.”
Houston Sports Authority CEO Janis Burke said, "It was such a rewarding experience to be part of the future host city Qatar viewing program. This 'behind-the-scenes' look at the operational requirements of hosting the World Cup is a valuable learning opportunity as our preparations begin. We are committed to delivering an unparalleled World Cup experience in Houston, and 2026 will be here before we know it. We look forward to 'welcome the world to Houston and showcase our amazing and innovative city.'
Houston has big plans underway to ensure the 2026 World Cup serves as a catalyst for significant growth in the game, engaging millions of players and fans throughout South Texas.
The Harris County - Houston Sports Authority (HCHSA) has embarked on a major program of hosting and broadcasting major sporting events in its cities. In 2021 it was a hub for the Concacaf Gold Cup as it showcased its World Cup hosting credentials.
Earlier this year, HCHSA also celebrated its 25th anniversary, marking Houston's growth as a premier host city and a key player in the international sports community.
Contact the author of this story at moc.l1670592217labto1670592217ofdlr1670592217owedi1670592217sni@n1670592217osloh1670592217cin.l1670592217uap1670592217
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