ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) – The U.S. Embassy in Islamabad, in collaboration with the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF), hosted a special kick‑off event at the embassy to mark the start of a countdown to the FIFA World Cup 2026 and to spotlight the cultural and economic ties this global tournament creates.
Chargé d’Affaires (CDA) Natalie Baker and PFF President Syed Mohsen Gilani welcomed chief guest Minister of Railways Hanif Abbasi, Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme Rana Mashood Ahmad Khan, a football manufacturing company, representatives of Coca‑Cola, McDonald’s, and members of the diplomatic and sports communities. Around 150 guests attended the event.
“President Trump has underscored the 2026 FIFA World Cup is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to showcase the beauty and greatness of America, and we are eager to welcome fans to the United States, especially as we get ready to celebrate our 250th birthday on July 4,” said CDA Baker.
CDA Baker added, “the 2026 FIFA World Cup is the start of an ‘American Decade of Sport.’ Between now and 2034, the United States is hosting at least 10 other major international sporting events, including the 2028 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles. These events will leave a legacy for all of us of stronger economies and deeper cultural connections. We look forward to sharing those experiences with our friends and partners in Pakistan.”
PFF President Gilani said, “it gives us great pleasure that we are launching this ceremonial event alongside the U.S. Embassy in Pakistan. The Pakistan national team might not have qualified for the World Cup but there is a wave of excitement in the country for the first-ever 48-team event in North America. The euphoria will reach fever pitch when the World Cup kicks off with each moment of the biggest football show on earth being celebrated across Pakistan. The United States will prove itself as an exemplary host as it welcomes the world for a celebration of the sport that we all love.”
PFF President Gilani added, “Football unites the world and hoped that the event will bring people closer.” He also hailed the United States’ exceptional capability to hold top sporting events with the FIFA World Cup to be followed by the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles and the Rugby World Cup in 2031. He expressed his best wishes to the United States in its bid to host the 2031 FIFA Women’s World Cup in partnership with Mexico, Jamaica, and Costa Rica.
A highlight of the evening was the unveiling of an oversized football produced by a manufacturing company based in Sialkot, Punjab. CDA Baker, PFF President Gilani, and other guests joined in the unveiling. The formal program concluded with a ceremonial gift exchange and Coca-Cola’s recognition of two female Pakistan National Football players, after which guests were invited to participate in an informal penalty-kick challenge on the field.