Islamabad, May 19, 2026(Ghufran): The U.S. Embassy in Islamabad, in collaboration with the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF), hosted a special launch event to officially begin the countdown to the FIFA World Cup 2026, highlighting the power of sports diplomacy and the growing cultural and economic connections fostered through international sporting events.
The event was hosted at the U.S. Embassy and attended by approximately 150 distinguished guests from the diplomatic corps, sports community, corporate sector, and government institutions.
Chargé d’Affaires Natalie Baker and PFF President Syed Mohsen Gilani welcomed chief guest Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi, Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme Rana Mashood Ahmad Khan, representatives from leading football manufacturing companies, Coca-Cola, McDonald’s, and members of Pakistan’s football fraternity.
Speaking on the occasion, CDA Natalie Baker said that the FIFA World Cup 2026 represents a historic opportunity for the United States to welcome the world and celebrate international friendship through sport.
“President Trump has underscored that the 2026 FIFA World Cup is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to showcase the beauty and greatness of America. We are eager to welcome fans from around the world, especially as the United States prepares to celebrate its 250th Independence anniversary on July 4,” she stated.
CDA Baker further described the tournament as the beginning of an “American Decade of Sport,” noting that the United States will host several major international sporting events through 2034, including the 2028 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles.
“These global events will leave a lasting legacy of stronger economies, greater people-to-people engagement, and deeper cultural understanding. We look forward to sharing these experiences with our friends and partners in Pakistan,” she added.
PFF President Syed Mohsen Gilani expressed appreciation for the partnership with the U.S. Embassy and emphasized the growing enthusiasm for football across Pakistan ahead of the first-ever 48-team FIFA World Cup in North America.
“Although Pakistan has not qualified for the tournament, there is tremendous excitement across the country for the FIFA World Cup 2026. The passion for football in Pakistan continues to grow, and fans will celebrate every moment of the world’s biggest sporting spectacle,” he said.
Gilani added that football has the unique ability to unite people across borders and cultures, while also praising the United States’ proven capability to host world-class sporting events. He extended best wishes for upcoming international events in the United States, including the 2028 Olympics, Rugby World Cup 2031, and the joint bid to host the 2031 FIFA Women’s World Cup alongside Mexico, Jamaica, and Costa Rica.
One of the key highlights of the evening was the unveiling of a giant football manufactured in Sialkot, Punjab — globally recognized for producing high-quality footballs used in international competitions. CDA Baker, PFF President Gilani, and distinguished guests jointly participated in the unveiling ceremony.
The event concluded with a ceremonial exchange of gifts, recognition of two female Pakistan National Football players by Coca-Cola, and an interactive penalty-kick challenge that brought together guests in a celebration of sportsmanship and friendship.