ISLAMABAD: The countdown to the biggest FIFA World Cup in history has officially begun in Pakistan, not with a stadium roar, but with a diplomatic handshake, an oversized football from Sialkot, and a promise of deeper ties through the beautiful game.
The US Embassy in Islamabad, in partnership with the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF), hosted a special kick-off event at the embassy to mark the start of celebrations leading to the FIFA World Cup 2026, while spotlighting the cultural and economic connections this global tournament creates.
‘Once-in-a-lifetime chance,’ says top US diplomat
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, representatives of a Sialkot-based football manufacturing company, officials from Coca-Cola and McDonald’s, and members of the diplomatic and sports communities. Around 150 guests attended.
“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.
US Embassy Islamabad & Pakistan Football Federation Launch FIFA World Cup 2026 Countdown
Islamabad, Pakistan
The US Embassy in Islamabad, in partnership with the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF), hosted a high-profile kick-off event marking the countdown to the FIFA World Cup… pic.twitter.com/bg4rAXC1k9— Voice of Germany (@NewsVOG) May 19, 2026
‘American decade of sport’ unveiled
CDA Baker added that the 2026 FIFA World Cup marks 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,” she 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.”
Pakistan may not be playing, but excitement is real
PFF President Gilani struck an optimistic tone, acknowledging that while the Pakistan national team has not qualified, the country’s passion for football remains undimmed.
“It gives us great pleasure that we are launching this ceremonial event alongside the US 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.”
Gilani added that “football unites the world” and expressed hope the event will bring people closer. He also hailed America’s exceptional capability to host top sporting events, from the 2026 World Cup to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics and the 2031 Rugby World Cup. He extended 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.
Sialkot’s stamp on a global spectacle
A highlight of the evening was the unveiling of an oversized football, produced by a manufacturing company based in Sialkot, Punjab, a city renowned as the global capital of hand-stitched footballs. CDA Baker, PFF President Gilani, and other guests joined in the unveiling.
The formal program concluded with a ceremonial gift exchange, followed by Coca-Cola’s recognition of two female Pakistan national football players. Guests were then invited to participate in an informal penalty-kick challenge on the field, a fitting end to an evening that celebrated football’s universal language of teamwork, determination, discipline, and hope.
