The Saudi-U.S. Business Council hosted an event in New York City titled “Beyond the Pitch: Shaping the Future of Sport in the New Global Arena,” focusing on economic and investment opportunities emerging from the hosting of the 2026 and 2034 FIFA World Cups.
Held under the council’s Quality of Life Initiative, the event aimed to strengthen cooperation between Saudi Arabia and the United States across sports, tourism, entertainment and hospitality, while supporting the Kingdom’s broader economic transformation goals.
The event was attended by Mohammed Al Al-Sheikh, Minister of State, Cabinet Member, Member of the Council of Economic and Development Affairs, and Member of the Board of Directors of the World Cup 2034 Hosting Higher Authority. It also brought together Andrew Giuliani, Executive Director of the White House Task Force for the FIFA World Cup 2026, along with government representatives, business leaders and investors from both countries.
Discussions focused on lessons from the United States, Mexico and Canada’s preparations to host the FIFA World Cup 2026, as well as opportunities to expand Saudi-U.S. economic collaboration. Participants highlighted the role of major sporting events in driving investment across infrastructure, tourism, technology, hospitality and entertainment, contributing to the growth of the global sports economy.
Al Al-Sheikh said Saudi Arabia’s preparations for hosting the FIFA World Cup 2034 present significant opportunities for investment, innovation and international partnerships. He emphasised the importance of using sport as a platform that connects business, culture and entertainment while creating world-class experiences for fans.
Giuliani noted that the United States, Mexico and Canada’s hosting of the FIFA World Cup 2026 is expected to deliver lasting economic benefits, while expressing his enthusiasm for continued cooperation with Saudi Arabia as it prepares for the 2034 tournament.
Charles Hallab, CEO of the Saudi-U.S. Business Council, said sport has become a key area of cooperation between the two nations. He highlighted that the 2026 and 2034 FIFA World Cups provide opportunities to deepen partnerships, attract investment and create sustainable economic value across multiple sectors.
Hallab reaffirmed the council’s commitment to connecting government leaders and the private sector, strengthening economic ties between Saudi Arabia and the United States, and identifying new opportunities linked to the growing global sports industry.
