US Embassy, PFF Begin World Cup 2026 Countdown in Islamabad
The US Embassy and the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) launched the World Cup 2026 countdown at a special event in Islamabad on Tuesday. The gathering celebrated football, cultural ties, and Pakistan’s growing role in the global sports industry. Around 150 guests attended the event. Diplomats, sports officials, corporate representatives, and football supporters also joined the celebration. In addition, guests enjoyed a live musical performance during the evening. US Chargé d’Affaires Natalie Baker and PFF President Syed Mohsen Gilani welcomed several notable guests. These included Federal Minister Hanif Abbasi and Prime Minister’s Youth Programme Chairman Rana Mashood Ahmad Khan. A major highlight of the event was the unveiling of a giant football made in Sialkot. The Punjab city is famous worldwide for producing high-quality footballs. Baker praised Pakistan’s sports manufacturing industry after recently visiting Sialkot.
She said the World Cup 2026 would help strengthen cultural and economic connections between countries. Furthermore, she described the tournament as part of an “American Decade of Sport.” Baker also shared excitement about upcoming global sporting events in the United States. These include the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles and several other international competitions.
Football Brings People Together
During the ceremony, Coca-Cola honored two female Pakistan national football players. Later, guests participated in a friendly penalty-kick challenge. Baker scored a goal and received loud applause from the audience. Hanif Abbasi said sports diplomacy helps build strong people-to-people connections. He added that football encourages teamwork and inspires young people to dream bigger. Meanwhile, PFF President Gilani said Pakistanis are excited about the first-ever 48-team FIFA World Cup. Although Pakistan has not qualified, football fans across the country eagerly await the tournament. Gianni Infantino also shared a video message for the event. The FIFA president praised PFF efforts to promote football in Pakistan and expressed excitement for the upcoming competition.
