The U.S. Embassy in Islamabad, in collaboration with the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF), hosted a special kickoff event to launch the countdown to the FIFA World Cup 2026, highlighting the tournament’s role in strengthening cultural and economic ties between nations.
The event, held at the U.S. Embassy, brought together around 150 guests from Pakistan’s diplomatic, sports, and business communities. Attendees included Minister of Railways Hanif Abbasi, Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme Rana Mashood Ahmad Khan, representatives from Coca-Cola and McDonald’s, and officials from a football manufacturing company based in Sialkot.
U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Natalie Baker and PFF President Syed Mohsen Gilani jointly welcomed guests at what organizers described as Pakistan’s first-ever World Cup launch event.
‘A Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity’
Addressing the gathering, Baker emphasized the significance of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
“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,” Baker said.
She described the tournament as the beginning of an “American Decade of Sport.”
“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,” Baker said.
“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.”
In her formal remarks, Baker said the World Cup would serve as a platform for international engagement through sports diplomacy.
“The United States strongly believes in that power and the power of sports diplomacy. Through exchanges, youth engagement and partnerships like this one, we deepen ties between our countries and create lasting connections between our people,” she said.
Pakistan embraces World Cup Excitement
PFF President Gilani said the event reflected growing enthusiasm in Pakistan ahead of the expanded 48-team FIFA World Cup, the largest edition in the tournament’s history.
“It gives us great pleasure that we are launching this ceremonial event alongside the U.S. Embassy in Pakistan,” Gilani said.
“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.”
He also praised the United States’ ability to host major global sporting events.
“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,” Gilani said.
Gilani added that football has a unique ability to connect people across borders.
“Football unites the world and hoped that the event will bring people closer,” he said.
He further expressed support for the United States’ bid to host the 2031 FIFA Women’s World Cup in partnership with Mexico, Jamaica, and Costa Rica.
Spotlight on Pakistan’s Football Manufacturing Industry
A key highlight of the evening was the unveiling of an oversized football produced in Sialkot, Punjab, a city globally recognized for manufacturing world-class footballs.
Baker, who recently visited Forward Sports in Sialkot, praised the craftsmanship behind Pakistan-made footballs used on the international stage. “I saw firsthand the craftsmanship and precision that go into producing world-class footballs,” she said during her remarks.
She noted that footballs manufactured in Pakistan continue to contribute to FIFA tournaments and global football culture.
The embassy also screened a short video showcasing how footballs produced in Sialkot make their way to international stadiums and tournaments.
The formal program concluded with a ceremonial gift exchange and Coca-Cola’s recognition of two female Pakistan national football players.
Guests later participated in an informal penalty-kick challenge organized on the embassy grounds.
Speaking about the broader impact of football, Baker described the sport as a universal language. “Football is the world’s game because it speaks a universal language — one of teamwork, determination, discipline, and hope,” she said.
She added that the tournament inspires young people to pursue their ambitions and work collectively toward shared goals.
“Whether on a neighborhood pitch in Islamabad or in a packed stadium during the World Cup, football asks us to dream bigger and to work together,” Baker said.