The Columbia Global Football Forum: Impact of the FIFA World Cup 2026
Sponsored by the Media and Technology Program and The Hub at Columbia Business School
Presented in collaboration with the Office of Student Affairs Forever Week
Monday, April 27th, 2026
10:00am - 1:45pm
Cooperman Commons
David Geffen Hall
Columbia Business School
With the FIFA World Cup 2026 set to make history as the first tournament hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Columbia Business School brings together leading voices in sports, media, and business to explore what's at stake. From the commercial opportunities reshaping the game to the lasting legacy for host communities, this forum examines the World Cup's impact on and off the pitch. Through two panels featuring executives, athletes, and industry leaders, attendees will gain insight into the business of football at a pivotal moment for the sport in North America.
Time | Agenda |
|---|---|
10:00–10:30am | Arrival and check-in, Geffen Lobby Coffee and light refreshments, Wang Alumni Suite |
10:30–10:40am | Welcome: Jonathan Knee, Michael T. Fries Professor of Professional Practice of Media and Technology; Co-Director, Media and Technology Program |
10:40–11:00am | The Context: Sunil Gulati, Former President, U.S. Soccer Federation; Michael K. Dakolias Senior Lecturer Economics, Columbia College |
11:00am–12:00pm
| Panel One: Short and Long Term Commercial Impact Panelists: Moderator: |
12:00–12:45pm | Lunch Break, Wang Alumni Suite |
12:45–1:45pm | Panel Two: Lived Experience and Legacy Panelists: Moderator: |