Concacaf President Victor Montagliani appointed to Order of British Columbia
Montagliani recognized with the province’s highest honor for his contributions to football in British Columbia, Canada and internationally
Miami, Florida – Concacaf President and FIFA Vice President Victor Montagliani has been named among the 2026 appointees to the Order of British Columbia, the province’s highest form of recognition.
Established in 1989, the Order recognizes individuals who have served with exceptional distinction and whose achievements have benefited the people of British Columbia and beyond. Montagliani is one of 12 recipients selected for the honor in 2026.
“I am deeply humbled to receive this recognition from the province I have always called home,” said Concacaf President and FIFA Vice President Victor Montagliani. “Football has given me the opportunity to serve communities in British Columbia, across Canada and throughout our Concacaf region. This honor belongs to the many people, including staff and volunteers, and organizations I have had the privilege of working alongside throughout my journey. I am extremely proud of what we have accomplished together and remain committed to using the power of our game to create opportunities and bring people closer.”
Raised in East Vancouver in an Italian immigrant family, Montagliani’s lifelong involvement in football began at the community level. He helped develop Columbus FC into one of Canada’s leading clubs before serving in leadership roles with BC Soccer and Canada Soccer.
During his tenure as President of Canada Soccer, Montagliani oversaw the successful delivery of the FIFA Women’s World Cup Canada 2015 and helped establish the vision and foundation for the Canadian Premier League.
Since being elected President of Concacaf in 2016, Montagliani has led the continued transformation of football governance and development across North America, Central America and the Caribbean. He also played an instrumental role in securing the FIFA World Cup 2026 hosting rights for Canada, alongside Mexico and the United States.
The Government of British Columbia recognized Montagliani for elevating football “from east Vancouver to the world stage,” championing the sport’s growth and helping bring both the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2015 and FIFA World Cup 2026 to communities across British Columbia and Canada.
In a congratulatory letter, British Columbia Premier David Eby described the Order as the highest recognition bestowed by the provincial government and thanked Montagliani for his contributions, calling his accomplishments inspirational.
Montagliani and the other 2026 recipients will be formally inducted during an investiture ceremony at Government House in Victoria on September 24, 2026.
