Residents of Munich have backed the city's bid to host the Olympic Games by two thirds, giving the green light to bring the Summer Games to Bavaria in 2036, 2040 or 2044.

A referendum found 66.4 percent of voters supported the measure, which means the city remains in the fight to become the chosen host city of the German Olympic Sports Confederation (DOSB), who look set to bid for the 2036 event. Capital city Berlin is also in contention, alongside Hamburg and the Rhine-Ruhr region - which hosted the 2025 FISU Summer World University Games.

Hamburg and Rhine-Ruhr are expected to follow Munich in hosting local referendums, while Berlin has no plans to do so. Berlin's bid also survived a potential collapse when the city's Sports Minister, Iris Spranger, kept her position following a no-confidence vote in the House of Representatives. This was motioned by the Green Party and The Left, two of the major political parties on the centre-left and left respectively. Spranger, representing the centre-left Social Democratic Party, remains in place after being supported by her party and their coalition partners, the conservative Christian Democratic Union. This vote took place after concerns over correct procedures related to transparency over public funds.

Hamburg had aimed to bid for the 2024 Summer Olympics, which went to Paris, but a referendum found 51.6 percent of the population rejected the proposal.

Munich's referendum was the highest of its kind compared to other sporting questions. 42 percent of the eligible electorate participated, a higher turnout than the previous turnout record of 37.5 percent for the referendum held in 2001 to approve the construction of the Allianz Arena, the future home of football club Bayern Munich.

Munich Mayor, Dieter Reiter, expressed his delight following the result stating: "This result is far more than a yes to the Olympics. It is a yes to bold, sustainable, and inclusive urban development."

In 2013, the city's residents rejected a proposed bid for the 2022 Winter Olympic Games - which would have made it the first city to host the Summer and Winter editions. This was instead won by Beijing, who became the first city to host both.

2036 would be a notable landmark for a German bid - coming 100 years after the Berlin 1936 Olympic Games, which is considered to be a shameful mark in sporting history, hosted under the regime of Nazi Germany. For the Bavarian city, it will also be an opportunity to revisit their past and have a second chance. The Munich 1972 Games are remembered for the kidnapping and murder of 11 Israeli Olympic team members and one police officer by the militant organisation Black September. The decision for the Games to continue afterwards remains controversial today.

While Germany is expected to bid for the 2036 Olympic Games, an official bid will not be launched until the DOSB confirm its candidate city in late 2026. Ahmedabad, India, is the latest city to bid for the event, joining Qatar's capital city Doha, Turkish city Istanbul and Santiago, the capital city of Chile.

[Source: WePlan] As the world prepares to mark 100 days to the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games, a new study highlights the recurring factors that determine the outcome of major-event candidatures.

Based on lessons from Expo 2030 Riyadh and Milano Cortina 2026, the analysis points to five decisive elements in winning bids: governance clarity, narrative coherence, stakeholder unity, operational viability, and alignment with long-term development plans.

The findings are set out in the first edition of the WePlan Knowledge Paper series, a collection of publications that will explore different phases in the lifecycle of mega-events.

A key feature of this first paper is the USP Positioning Framework, a methodology designed to help bidders identify and validate their true differentiators. The framework addresses a common weakness in candidatures: the tendency to present local strengths as unique without testing them against the priorities of rights-holders or the positioning of competitors.

“Candidatures are no longer judged only on ambition or technical capacity. They are evaluated on credibility, sustainability, and alignment with wider strategies,” said Roberto Daneo, co-founder of WePlan. “With this Knowledge Paper we want to contribute to a more disciplined, transparent, and legacy-oriented approach to winning bids.”

Giorgio Re, co-founder of WePlan, added: “Expo 2030 Riyadh and Milano Cortina 2026 provide valuable examples of how vision and delivery capacity can come together. Our Knowledge Paper series is designed to make these lessons available to future bidders and stakeholders.”

About the Knowledge Paper series

The WePlan Knowledge Paper series will cover the full lifecycle of mega-events in four publications:

1. Winning Mega-Event Candidatures (October 2025)
2. Transition and Early Stage Planning (January 2026)
3. Operational Readiness (April 2026)
4. Event-time and Dissolution (July 2026)

Each edition will draw on WePlan’s experience across multiple international projects and propose structured tools to support cities, regions, and organisers in managing the complexity of world-scale events.

The first Knowledge Paper is available for free download on https://www.we-plan.eu/knowledge-papers.

Just last month, India and Nigeria submitted formal proposals to host the centenary edition of the Games, and six weeks later, it looks set to go in the direction of the most-populous country in the world.

Confirming Ahmedabad, also known as Amdavad, as the 2030 host city now relies on a vote, set to take place at the Commonwealth Sport General Assembly in Glasgow on November 26 2025.

The Scottish city will host the 2026 Commonwealth Games as a late replacement for the Australian state of Victoria, who withdrew as host in 2023. In December, it will host the twelfth edition of Host City.

The recommendation to award the Games to India comes after a “detailed process” from the Commonwealth Sport Evaluation Committee, which assessed candidate cities’ capabilities in areas such as technical delivery, athlete experience, infrastructure, governance and “alignment with Commonwealth Sport values” based on the “Games Reset” principles outlined by the organisation.

Commonwealth Sport added that both Ahmedabad and the Nigerian capital Abuja submitted “compelling proposals” in their bids. Despite missing out, there is a glimmer of hope for Nigeria. The Commonwealth Sport Executive Board agreed to develop a strategy that would support the country’s ambition to host a future Commonwealth Games, including in 2034.

Dr. Donald Rukare, Interim President of Commonwealth Sport, said: “We are grateful to both India and Nigeria for the vision and commitment they have shown in developing proposals to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games. Both proposals were inspiring, reflecting the scale of opportunity within our Commonwealth family.

“The Executive Board has carefully considered the Evaluation Committee’s findings and is recommending Amdavad to our membership. This is a significant milestone for the Movement as we look to our Centenary Games, and we now look ahead to the General Assembly in Glasgow where our members will make the final decision.

“The Board were impressed with the vision and ambition of Nigeria’s proposal and were united in our commitment to continue working with their team to explore future hosting opportunities. This decision reflects our determination to take the Commonwealth Games to the African continent.”

Dr. P T Usha, President of the Indian Olympic Association, said: “It would be an extraordinary honour for India to host the Centenary Commonwealth Games in Amdavad. The Games would not only showcase India’s world-class sporting and event capabilities, but also play a meaningful role in our national journey towards Viksit Bharat 2047.

“We see the 2030 Games as a powerful opportunity to inspire our youth, strengthen international partnerships and contribute to a shared future across the Commonwealth.”

Viksit Bharat 2047 is a vision project from the Indian Government to make the country a developed nation by the centenary anniversary of India’s independence. India previously hosted the Commonwealth Games in 2010 in Delhi. The awarding of the 2030 Commonwealth Games fares well for India’s ambitions to host a future edition of the Olympic Games.

An African nation has never hosted the Commonwealth Games. South Africa has twice been awarded, but would not go on to host. Johannesburg was the original host city for the 1934 edition, but this was moved to London due to concerns over the treatment of non-white athletes. Durban has awarded the 2022 event, but was stripped due to financial constraints. Birmingham was instead awarded hosting rights.

Harare, Zimbabwe, then known as Salisbury as part of the colonial federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland, submitted a bid for the 1966 Games, while Nigeria has been unsuccessful on three attempts – Lagos in 1982 and Abuja in both 2014 and 2030.

The multi-sport event first took place in 1930 in Hamilton, Canada, and was formerly known as the British Empire Games, the British Empire and Commonwealth Games and British Commonwealth Games until adopting its current name for the 1978 edition in Edmonton.

[Source: ISSA] The Islamic Solidarity Sports Association (ISSA) will conduct a series of on-site inspection visits to Uzbekistan, Malaysia and Iran, following the official submission of their bids to host the 2029 Islamic Solidarity Games.

The visits represent a key milestone in the continued development of the Islamic Solidarity Games, as ISSA works to strengthen the event’s future and expand opportunities for countries to host major multi-sport events.

They also come as the countdown continues to the 6th Islamic Solidarity Games – Riyadh 2025, which will bring together athletes from 57 countries in a celebration of sport, unity and shared values.

ISSA Secretary General Nasser Majali welcomed the strong interest from the candidate countries, noting that it reflects the growing stature of the Islamic Solidarity Games and their increasing role in advancing sport at both regional and international levels.

“It is extremely encouraging to see three passionate and capable countries come forward to host the next edition of the Islamic Solidarity Games,” said Majali.

“These inspection visits represent a key phase in the evaluation process to ensure the Games are delivered to the highest standards for our athletes and National Olympic Committees, in full partnership with the host country.

“They also reaffirm ISSA’s commitment to enabling more member countries to benefit from hosting major international sports events and contributing to the continued development of sport across all regions.”

Following an initial evaluation process, six member countries submitted formal letters of interest to ISSA to host the next edition of the Islamic Solidarity Games. After further discussions and assessments, Uzbekistan, Malaysia and Iran proceeded to submit their full hosting bids.

The inspection visits are being led by the ISSA Secretary General, accompanied by members of the ISSA Sport Commission, to review the candidate countries’ facilities, infrastructure and organizational plans ahead of the final hosting decision.

The Riyadh 2025 Islamic Solidarity Games will welcome around 3,500 athletes from 57 countries, competing across 23 sports from 7 to 21 November 2025, marking the event’s return to Saudi Arabia two decades after the inaugural edition in 2005.

One of Scotland’s most recognisable sports media professionals, Rhona brings over two decades of experience in broadcasting, presenting, hosting and interviewing across the sporting world. She has reported from six Summer and Winter Olympic Games, the Paralympic Games, and will work on her sixth Commonwealth Games at Glasgow 2026. Her career highlights also include Wimbledon, the FIFA World Cup Finals, The Open Championship in golf, European and World Athletics Championships, and the Six Nations rugby.

A former international long jumper for Scotland, Rhona has travelled the globe as a sports journalist, working on every continent except Antarctica. As a proud Scot, she is especially delighted to welcome delegates to her home city of Glasgow for Host City 2025.

Speaking about her appointment, Rhona McLeod said:

“I am absolutely thrilled to be hosting Host City 2025. I have lived my professional life in the sports events business, and I cannot speak highly enough of the cultural value of working alongside a diverse and committed workforce of global citizens.

“It’s such an exciting time for the Events world. The return has been vibrant post COVID. I am honoured to be invited to be a part of “Getting on with the Business of Events.”

“I am excited to welcome all delegates to my home city. It’s going to be a fantastic programme of events with the most impressive of international sporting professionals on stage. We have already hosted Spiderman this summer – we are ready to welcome a great deal more Superheroes in December.”

Host City 2025 will gather event owners and organisers, cities and destinations and event suppliers under the theme “Getting on with the Business of Events” and will highlight the opportunities and challenges facing the global events industry in a rapidly evolving world.

The Organising Committee announced the programme at its headquarters in Salt Lake City on Monday, with 22 “Founding Captains” and “Founding Donors” of Podium34 recognised. Some of these have remained anonymous, while others have chosen to go public.

There are two tiers of participants. The Founding Captains, who have provided a $20 million contribution, and the Founding Donors, who donated between $1-15 million each. For Founding Captains, there is an opportunity to see their support turned into sport and community initiatives that reflect their missions. These can be in areas such as education, youth sports, mental health, arts and culture and community engagement.

Salt Lake City-Utah’s aim is to raise $300 million through the programme, with Podium34 reportedly already making up over $200 million on the date of its launch. Organisers claim this is the “largest-ever philanthropic campaign in support of hosting the Olympic and Paralympic Games”.

“The Games have an extraordinary power to unify," said Salt Lake City-Utah 2034 President and Executive Chair Fraser Bullock. "This is the first time a host for the Olympic and Paralympic Games has seen anything like this. We are deeply grateful to our donors for making it possible. Their leadership is a vital part of our commitment to host financially successful Games.”

Some of these donors include the non-profit foundations linked to Utah corporations. Among them are Ryan Smith, owner of National Basketball Association team Utah Jazz and National Hockey League side Utah Mammoth. Others include convenience store corporation Maverik, and the Daniels Fund – a foundation founded by cable television executive and former sports team owner Bill Daniels.

International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Kirsty Coventry sent a message of gratitude to the donors, during the Podium34 press announcement.

“To the Utah families and giving organisations of Podium34, thank you.

“You are the heart of this new chapter. Your belief, your vision, and your leadership are powerful elements of the Utah legacy. As Founding Captains and Donors of Podium34, you’re taking the helm of something unprecedented and you’ve chosen to lead, from the very beginning, to fuel the heart of this movement.

“You are sending a powerful message to the world that sport can inspire, that communities can be lifted, and that, together, we can build something greater than ourselves.”

Salt Lake City-Utah was awarded the 2034 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2024 and formed their Organising Committee in February of this year. The IOC Future Host Commission nominated Salt Lake City-Utah as its preferred candidate in November 2023, before this was approved at the IOC Session in Paris in July 2024.

The 2034 Winter Olympic Games are set to take place from February 10 to 26 2034, followed by the Paralympic Games from March 10 to 19.

[Source: SportAccord] SportAccord, the world’s leading sports business conference, today confirmed that the SportAccord Convention 2026 will take place in Baku, Azerbaijan, from 24-28 May 2026, following the signing of the Host City Agreement.

This landmark agreement was signed today by SportAccord President Prof. Dr. Uğur Erdener with Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Youth and Sport, and Baku City Circuit Operations Company.

The SportAccord Convention is a leading global platform that connects key decision-makers and experts from across the global sports industry – from International Federations, the International Olympic Committee (IOC), host cities, and rights holders – to discuss and shape the future of sport.

The Baku Convention Center will serve as the hub for cutting-edge panel debates, meetings, exhibitions and networking, while the iconic Heydar Aliyev Center by Zaha Hadid will host the Opening Ceremony, blending Baku’s modern architecture with its rich cultural heritage.

SportAccord President Prof. Dr. Uğur Erdener commented: “We are thrilled to bring the 19th edition of the world’s most important gathering of sports leaders, the SportAccord Convention, to Baku in 2026.

“Baku has a very strong track record in delivering world-class events, and this will be a significant moment both for SportAccord and the entire global sports industry.

“We are excited to work with our partners from the Ministry of Youth and Sport, and Baku City Circuit Operations Company, to deliver a truly exceptional event.

“Delegates can expect world-class facilities, the warmth of Azerbaijani hospitality, and an environment that fosters new connections and meaningful opportunities for the future of sport.”

The next edition provides a timely opportunity to gather the global sports industry, following the Olympic Winter Games and Paralympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026, at a time when new leadership in the Olympic Movement and shifting priorities are defining the opportunities and challenges facing the future of sport.

Baku is a city which lives and breathes sport, and its renowned expertise in hosting international gatherings provides a perfect setting for the latest chapter in SportAccord’s illustrious history. Its role as Host City is further underlined by its designation as World Capital of Sport 2026 by ACES Europe, recognising its achievements in staging international competitions and investing in modern infrastructure.

Azerbaijan’s Minister of Youth and Sports, H.E. Farid Gayibov said: “Azerbaijani sports have always been supported with great care and attention by our state leader, His Excellency Ilham Aliyev. Our nation’s sports achievements and our ability to host international events are a direct result of this commitment. Hosting the SportAccord Convention is a fantastic opportunity to further showcase our capabilities and to contribute to the global conversation that will shape the future of our industry. We are incredibly excited to collaborate with SportAccord and are committed to handling this event with great care and responsibility to make it a truly memorable experience for all.”

The vibrant capital of Azerbaijan is situated on the Caspian Sea, and enjoys a rich history fused with striking modern architecture which comprises its impressive cityscape. Baku proudly hosted the inaugural European Games in 2015, and has staged World Championships and European Championships across multiple sports, along with the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in Formula One since 2017.

Its unwavering commitment to the future of sport was further underlined by the UNESCO Global Sports Conference – MINEPS VII in Baku in June 2023, while in November 2024 global leaders gathered for the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) in the city.

The 2026 SportAccord Convention in Baku promises to stand at the centre of the global conversation on sport, driving the connections and ideas that will define its future.

Further details, including the Convention’s theme, programme highlights, and registration launch, will be announced in the coming months.

SportAccord continues to engage in productive discussions with other interested host cities for future editions of the SportAccord Convention.

SportAccord President Prof. Dr. Uğur Erdener is speaking at Host City 2025 in Glasgow on 1-3 December. Host City is a longstanding media partner of SportAccord

[Source: Commonwealth Sport] India and Nigeria have submitted formal proposals to host the 2030 centenary Commonwealth Games by the deadline of 31 August 2025. This follows unprecedented, diverse and wide-ranging Expressions of Interest in hosting the Games in 2030 and beyond.

Commonwealth Sport (CS) President Dr Donald Rukare said: “We are delighted to confirm that India and Nigeria have submitted exciting formal proposals to host the centenary edition of the Commonwealth Games in 2030. This positive response from two sporting powerhouse nations of the Commonwealth demonstrates the continued significance and legacy potential of the Commonwealth Games and the strength and appeal of our reimagined, sustainable Games model.

“I would like to thank the Commonwealth Games Associations (CGA) of India and Nigeria and their respective Governments for the dynamic and ambitious spirit in which they have engaged in the collaborative dialogue phase. The Commonwealth Sport team has been inspired by the National Sports Policies presented and excited about how the Games can advance national ambitions and create legacy benefits for local communities.

“The 2030 Evaluation Commission now has the important and difficult task of reviewing and evaluating the proposals and recommending a host to the Executive Board and ultimately, the 74 nation and territory members of the Commonwealth Sport Movement.”

Commonwealth Sport CEO Katie Sadleir CNZM said: “We have made significant progress over the last 12 months, securing Glasgow as host for the 2026 Commonwealth Games and announcing Malta as host of the next Commonwealth Youth Games in 2027. I would like to thank all of the member countries who participated in the Expression of Interest process, and of course, to credit Glasgow and Scotland for setting a truly collaborative, flexible and pioneering example with their 2026 model, which is inspiring new, diverse countries to consider hosting the Games in the decades ahead.

“Today’s announcement also sends a strong signal to our athlete community that the Commonwealth Games remains a major milestone in the global sporting calendar and will continue to be an event that attracts the very best athletes.”

Both proposals will now be assessed by an Evaluation Commission appointed by the CS Executive Board, including in-person presentations by the Candidate Hosts at a meeting in London in late September 2025. The Evaluation Commission will report its findings to the CS Executive Board, which will recommend a host to the 74 member nations and territories for approval at the General Assembly in late November 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland.

The Evaluation Commission is chaired by CS Vice President Sandra Osborne KC, who also serves as the Federation’s Sports Committee Chair and President of the Barbados Commonwealth Games Association and Olympic Committee. Joining Sandra Osborne on the Commission are:

• Helen Phillips MBE, CS Executive Board Member and Regional Vice President for Europe
• Brendan Williams, CS Athletes’ Advisory Commission Chair
• Ian Reid CBE, Vice Chair, Glasgow 2026 Organising Company and Chair of Commonwealth Games Scotland
• Andrew Ryan MBE, former Executive Director, Association of Summer Olympic International Federations (ASOIF)
• Darren Hall, CS Director of Games & Assurance (non-voting)

CS launched a new collaborative host selection process for the Commonwealth Games in January this year, inviting its CGA members to lodge their interest for 2030 and future editions of the Commonwealth Games, with a deadline of the end of March. Following this initial phase, CS worked closely with each interested CGA and their regional representatives to assess hosting feasibility and support the development of detailed proposals. CS extends its sincere thanks to all who participated in these discussions and, in particular, to Commonwealth Sport Canada for its dedication and hard work. While it has decided to postpone its ambitions for hosting to a future Games, its contribution to the process is deeply appreciated.

The CS 2023-2034 ‘Commonwealth United’ Strategic Plan, launched in June 2023, and ‘Games Reset’ allow a move away from a traditional host bidding process. They enable flexibility, offering potential hosts the opportunity to be innovative and work collaboratively through a co-creation process on proposals for delivering the Games, while ensuring that all CS members can meaningfully participate.

Host City: How are the final preparations going for the upcoming IWF World Championships in Førde?

Mohammed Jalood: In less than a month, on 2 October, the world's best lifters will gather in Førde, Norway, for the 2025 IWF World Championships. Thanks to a great partnership with the Norwegian Weightlifting Federation and local authorities, we're in fantastic shape to provide an incredible experience for our athletes and fans. We have no doubt that it will be an amazing experience for everyone involved.

Host City: What will the city of Førde bring to this edition of the IWF World Championships?

Mohammed Jalood: Not only will Førde provide a picturesque backdrop of fjords, mountains, glaciers and forests, but there will be entertainment and activities for fans in the central square, providing a chance for families and weightlifting fans to enjoy a festival-like atmosphere during the competition.

Due to the geographical nature of Førde, these Championships will ensure short distances between venues, hotels, and entertainment for athletes, locals and visiting fans. We hope that will create a real community experience for all involved in the competition, where everyone feels a part of this sporting celebration.  

Host City: Given Norway's recent success in weightlifting, how do you believe hosting these Championships in Førde will further inspire and develop the sport within Norway the region?

Mohammed Jalood: Solfrid Koanda’s incredible success at Paris 2024, entering the record books as the first woman from Norway to win Olympic weightlifting gold and the first European woman to win in a weight category above 80kg, has already inspired a whole new generation of lifters in Norway and throughout Scandinavia. The World Championships in Førde will no doubt build on this momentum, introducing our sport to new fans and increasing our engagement as we continue the exciting journey towards LA28.

Host City: Sustainability is a key focus for Førde and the IWF. Can you tell us more about the IWF’s sustainability strategy?

Mohammed Jalood: We recognise that, even as an indoor sport, we are not immune to the effects of climate change. The health of our planet is vital for our athletes' training and competitions. Therefore, we are dedicated to addressing this important issue head-on. In March 2024, we collaborated with Sporting Giants, our key partner for our Sustainability Strategy, to develop a comprehensive roadmap. This plan aims to unify our National Federations, our event organisers and the wider weightlifting community in a shared approach to environmental stewardship.

Host City: How is the IWF ensuring that all athletes have the best possible conditions and support to perform their best in Førde?

Mohammed Jalood: As well as providing a high standard of accommodation, we are working with the city to ensure a seamless, athlete-focused experience throughout the World Championships. By providing smooth and efficient transport between venues and hotels, the athletes can remain focused on competing at their best and putting on a world-class performance. As the International Federation with decades of major event experience, we are working hand-in-hand with Førde to ensure that we cater to the needs of all our lifters.

[Source: FIFA World Cup 26 Houston ] Visit Sugar Land has announced a trailblazing partnership with the FIFA World Cup 26 Houston™ Host Committee, positioning Sugar Land as an Official Supporter of FIFA World Cup 26 Houston™. This significant contribution grants Sugar Land a voice in shaping how the city engages with the event and offers a unique platform to highlight its vibrant community and diverse experiences.

Houston will host seven FIFA World Cup™ matches from June 14 to July 4, 2026, across 21 days, in the summer of 2026, welcoming visitors from around the world to one of the largest sporting events in history. The games are estimated to bring 500,000 fans from around the world to the region, generating a projected $1.5 billion economic impact. As a regional partner, Sugar Land will capture a portion of that impact through tourism, hospitality, and business development, while boosting the city’s visibility throughout the tournament and beyond.

The city of Sugar Land will engage the local community in volunteer and youth development programs, launch targeted marketing campaigns, and activate its world-class venues such as Sugar Land Town Square, First Colony Mall, Smart Financial Centre, Constellation Field, and Sugar Land Regional Airport. Sugar Land’s location in Fort Bend County, one of the most diverse counties in Texas, makes it a prime choice as an Official Supporter of FIFA World Cup 26 Houston™, and will be the only city within a 26-county radius to hold this designation.

Sugar Land’s sponsorship will create a legacy that extends well beyond the tournament itself. The city aims to turn the global spotlight into long-term economic benefits by attracting new visitors, strengthening its reputation as a vibrant destination, fostering opportunities for local businesses to grow and attracting new businesses and residents to become part of Sugar Land’s thriving community. 

“This partnership elevates Sugar Land’s profile on a global scale,” said Sugar Land Mayor Carol McCutcheon. “Joining the Houston 2026 World Cup Committee as an Official Host City Supporter, we are not only welcoming the world to our community, but also investing in long-term economic growth, enhanced tourism, and strengthening a sense of pride for our residents and businesses.”

Elizabeth Huff, Sugar Land Executive Director of Economic Development said: “Sugar Land’s involvement in the 2026 FIFA World Cup as a Host City Supporter directly supports the part of Sugar Land’s Strategic Action Plan aimed at stimulating economic growth. It will not only tell our story on a global stage, but it will also generate significant economic benefits for the city, including increased tourism revenue, support for local businesses, and long-term business attraction. We’re excited to coordinate across the city and region to deliver a world-class experience, from public safety and traffic management and to introduce visitors from around the world to our internationally competitive business environment and signature hospitality.”

“Beyond the excitement of the World Cup matches, this is a strategic investment in Sugar Land’s future,” said Alison Brooks, Assistant Director of Visit Sugar Land. “We’re leveraging this global platform to expand tourism, attract new business, and position Sugar Land as a premier destination for residents, visitors, and companies alike.”

Chris Canetti, President of the FIFA World Cup 26 Houston Host Committee said: “The FIFA World Cup is more than just matches in Houston—it’s a regional celebration that unites our entire community. Sugar Land’s commitment as a Host City Supporter demonstrates how cities across the region are coming together to ensure this event leaves a legacy. Their partnership highlights the power of collaboration in showcasing all that Greater Houston has to offer to the world.”

“As the Official Houston 2026 World Cup Host City Supporter, Sugar Land is helping showcase the strength and unity of our entire region on the world’s stage,” said Ryan Walsh, CEO Harris County Houston Sports Authority. “Their partnership reflects the true spirit of the World Cup — bringing communities together, inspiring future generations, and ensuring that Houston and the surrounding region shine brightly in 2026 and beyond.”