In anticipation of the highly anticipated 2026 World Cup, FIFA is solidifying its presence in Miami, signaling a commitment to the growth of soccer in the Americas. The powerful governing body has leased an additional floor in a Coral Gables office tower, with plans to maintain the space as a key hub for the region post-tournament. This expansion comes as FIFA President Gianni Infantino gears up for the upcoming World Cup and makes the Miami area his new base of operations.
The decision to establish a more permanent presence in Miami underscores FIFA’s strategic focus on the Americas, where the 2026 World Cup will see matches hosted in Miami and 15 other cities across the US, Mexico, and Canada. The move also aligns with the city's growing reputation as a global soccer hub, especially following the signing of soccer legend Lionel Messi by Inter Miami CF last year.
With approximately 350 staff already relocated to Coral Gables, including key figures like Chief Legal Officer Emilio Garcia Silvero and his legal and compliance division, FIFA is poised to make a lasting impact in the region. Following the tournament, Garcia Silvero and his team of around 100 employees will remain in the US, further cementing FIFA's presence in Miami.
The organization now occupies a total of about 75,000 square feet in the 396 Alhambra Circle building, having recently expanded by leasing an additional 15,000 square feet. This move, which granted FIFA a fourth floor in addition to the three already in use, reflects the organization's commitment to establishing a strong foothold in the area.
President Gianni Infantino, who was re-elected in March with a vision to globalize soccer, has overseen significant financial growth during his tenure. FIFA's revenues reached $7.6 billion between 2019 and 2022, leading up to the Qatar World Cup. With expectations of $11 billion in revenues between 2023 to 2026, including the expanded 48-team format for the 2026 World Cup, FIFA's presence in Miami is poised to play a pivotal role in the organization's future endeavors.