Vancouver, BC – Victor Montagliani, Vice President of FIFA and President of Concacaf, will be honored on Friday, September 12, with the inaugural "Victor Montagliani Day" in his hometown of Vancouver, recognizing his influential leadership in developing football in Canada and worldwide.

The honor was proclaimed by Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim to recognize Montagliani’s lifelong dedication to football, beginning with his early work at BC Soccer, advancing to national leadership with the Canadian Soccer Association, and extending to the international stage through his roles with FIFA and Concacaf—culminating in his pivotal role in securing Canada as a co-host nation for the FIFA World Cup 2026 alongside the U.S. and Mexico. A proud East Vancouver native, Montagliani has been instrumental in elevating Canadian football onto the global stage.


The proclamation highlights how Montagliani’s leadership has inspired young athletes in Vancouver and across Canada, while also recognizing his tireless efforts to elevate the profile of Canadian football, including the country’s successful hosting of the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

A ceremony was held on Monday, August 25, at Vancouver City Hall, where Montagliani was joined by his family and friends, including FIFA General Secretary Mattias Grafström, the Honourable Wendy Cocchia, Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, and Canadian businessman Anthony von Mandl.

“Having a day dedicated in my name is an unimaginable and deeply humbling honor that I will treasure forever,” said Montagliani. “This moment would not be possible without the unwavering support I’ve received over the years from my parents, wife, and daughters, and from the entire football community in Canada. My goal has always been to give back by making a positive and measurable impact on our game and our nation in every way possible. I can assure you I will remain relentless in that mission.”

“I’m delighted to share this moment with everyone in my hometown of Vancouver. Over the years, Vancouver has truly become a football city, while our nation continues to emerge as one of the world’s leading footballing countries. It has been a privilege to witness that journey, and I cannot wait to showcase to visitors and a global audience all that Vancouver, Toronto, and communities across Canada will offer when we host the FIFA World Cup next summer.”

City of Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim said: “Victor’s story is a Vancouver story. From growing up in East Van to helping secure Canada as a co-host nation for the FIFA World Cup 2026, he has shown what’s possible when passion meets leadership. September 12 is our chance to celebrate not just his achievements, but also the inspiration he has given to young athletes and to our city as a whole.”

Vancouver will host seven matches in June and July 2026 during the highly anticipated FIFA World Cup. Toronto will host six matches.