Government Engagement Relations FIFA World Cup 26 All Host Cities

Position description

At FIFA26, our vision is to unite the world through the greatest sporting event of all time. The FIFA World Cup 26™ will mark the first time that the tournament will feature 48 teams and be hosted by three countries: Canada, Mexico and the USA. This new format will redefine excellence, generating unique opportunities for greater participation and engagement among fans and players across North America and all over the world. Now is your time to become a game changer and join the workforce that will plan and deliver this extraordinary and unforgettable experience.

FIFA World Cup 26 Skills Framework

ACCOUNTABILITY:Demonstrate commitment to responsibilities and objectively analyze one’s behavior, while assuming consequences of one’s own actions and/or decisions and learning from one’s mistakes.

DECISION MAKING:Ability to identify and swiftly make decisions in critical situations, take initiative and calculated risks, explore alternative solutions, and respond promptly to unforeseen circumstances.

INCLUSIVITY:Achieve shared organizational objectives by sharing information with colleagues across all levels and divisions, tangibly influencing others, and maintaining a network of support contacts.

INITIATIVE: Capacity to do things on one’s own initiative and to influence the course of events, assume responsibilities, and achieve objectives with a minimum of supervision and control.

INNOVATION:Capacity to break new ground, look for unconventional solutions, and produce fresh ideas.

LEADERSHIP:Ability to lead one’s contacts/colleagues/partners, encourage teamwork, and delegate authority/decision-making power, as needed, to produce the expected results and make efficient use of the team’s skills and talents.

VISION:Ability to perceive the organization’s global environmental impact, anticipate decision consequences, grasp organizational missions, and formulate strategic plans.

The Government Relations Onsite Lead is a key member of the FIFA World Cup 26™ Government Engagement team. This role is responsible for delivering seamless, high-level governmental and diplomatic engagement across stadium environments and assigned tournament venues. The main responsibilities include:

Government Engagement & Matchday Operations

• Support the Government Relations team by executing the tournament’s government engagement and protocol strategy at the assigned stadium.
• Serve as the primary onsite point of contact for high-ranking dignitaries, including federal, state, and local officials.
• Facilitate clear communication between government guests, Host City Committees, FIFA leadership, and stadium personnel.
• Ensure dignitaries receive accurate, timely, and respectful guidance throughout their stadium journey.

Protocol & VIP Coordination

• Coordinate with Guest Operations to ensure dignitaries receive world-class protocol services aligned with FIFA global standards.
• Ensure all cultural sensitivities, diplomatic considerations, and hierarchical expectations are appropriately managed.
• Support matchday seating arrangements, escorted movement plans, and protocol briefings.

Safety, Security & Controlled Movements

• Partner closely with Security and Safety teams to facilitate secure arrivals, transfers, stadium access points, and routes for government guests.
• Ensure movements follow all stadium security requirements and pre-approved operational plans.
• Support risk identification, incident communication, and emergency response alignment for government guests.

Cross-functional Coordination

• Work collaboratively with:
• Host City Committees
  -Stadium Management
  -Guest Operations
  -Safety & Security
  -Transportation
  -Protocol

  Other FIFA Functional Areas

• Ensure all governmental visit plans are aligned across departments and communicated effectively.
• Support venue operational planning directly related to government engagement for assigned matches.

Logistics, Planning & Operational Delivery

• Oversee logistics related to government engagement operations at the assigned venue.
• Ensure operational readiness ahead of each match, including:
• Movement plans
  -Arrival schedules
  -Delegation information
  -Contact lists
  -Briefings
  -Coordination with Host Committees

• Monitor operational execution and promptly address issues or deviations.

Reporting & Support

• Provide updates to the Director of Government Relations before, during, and after match operations.
• Document dignitary movements, operational issues, feedback, and lessons learned.
• Support post-match reviews and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Perform other duties as assigned by Government Relations leadership.

Qualifications

Education & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in government relations, Political Science, Public Administration, International Relations, Event Operations, or related field preferred.
• Equivalent experience in government liaison roles, protocol management, or event operations will be considered.

Work Experience

• Experience working with government agencies, elected officials, or diplomatic missions.
• Experience at major events, high-profile public engagements, or large sports events is beneficial.
• Strong background in stakeholder management and cross-functional coordination.
• Experience in high-pressure, fast-paced operational roles preferred.

Language

• Fluent in English (required)
• Spanish and/or French proficiency (strong plus)
• Additional languages beneficial for dignitary interaction.

Technology

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Teams, Outlook, Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Able to manage digital briefing files, schedules, operational plans, and communication tools.

Application instructions

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