The bid committee from Orlando, Florida GO26 who are looking to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup has named the Brazilian legend Ricardo Kaka as its honorary chairman as FIFA prepares to visit the site.
Kaka who retired from his legendary career at Orlando City Soccer Club in 2017 providing his support to the bid committee will help them boost their chances for hosting as they face competition from New York and Los Angeles as well.
Jason Siegel, chief executive of the Greater Orlando Sports Commission said “The endorsement of Kaka is very valuable because he sees this city – and our wonderful facilities – through the eyes of a World Cup winner, with 48 teams competing in 2026, everything has to be right for the players and fans.”
FIFA began its tour of the potential hosting cities this week and is scheduled to visit Orlando on 18th September. The 20-person visiting team consists of the Concacaf president and FIFA vice president Victor Montagliani and Colin Smith, FIFA chief tournament and events officer.
Kaka said, “It’s a great honor to lend my international soccer experience and become part of the GO26 bid team, I joined the Orlando City MLS franchise from its inception and have witnessed not only incredible growth but incredible passion for the sport. Orlando has a special place in my heart.”
There are many candidates in the US such as Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Cincinnati, Dallas, Denver, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, Nashville, New York, Orlando, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Seattle, and Washington, District of Columbia.
FIFA will be selecting 16 host cities which will be shared between the US, Canada, and Mexico.