Beyond the Match: Maximizing the Impact of FIFA World Cup 2026™

In February’s Civic Cocktail, Seattle CityClub invites you into a timely conversation about one of the largest global events ever to touch our region: FIFA World Cup 2026™. As Seattle steps onto the world stage, how do we ensure the benefits of this moment extend beyond match days and into our neighborhoods, economy, and civic life?

Segment One will provide a clear, behind-the-scenes look at the World Cup and its local implications. A soon-to-be announced speaker will outline what the tournament brings to Seattle—from infrastructure and logistics to economic opportunity and global visibility—and what residents should expect in the months leading up to kickoff.

After a short intermission, Segment Two shifts from overview to action. Representatives from the local organizations behind playbooks – Visit Seattle, the Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce, and the Seattle Sports Commission – will join the conversation to share practical tools, resources, and strategies for increasing local impact. From business activation and tourism to community engagement and legacy planning, this segment will focus on how Seattle can convert a global event into long-term value for the region.

Moderated by of KOMO TV, this Civic Cocktail blends insight with opportunity—connecting attendees directly to the people shaping Seattle’s role in the World Cup and offering a playbook for how the broader community can participate.

5:30–6:30 p.m. | Reception & Networking

Guests arrive early to enjoy lite appetizers, connect with fellow civic-minded attendees, and purchase cocktails or mocktails from The Collective’s bar.

6:30–7:05 p.m. | Segment One: World Cup—The Big Picture

Speaker:

• SeattleFWC26 (Speaker to be announced)
  

7:05–7:15 p.m. | Intermission

7:15–8:00 p.m. | Segment Two: Turning a Global Event into Local Impact

Panelists:

• Jorge Gotuzzo, World Cup Activation Lead, Visit Seattle
• Alex Webster, VP, Sporting Events Development, Seattle Sports Commission & SSC Foundation
• Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce (Speaker to be announced)

Ticket holders are encouraged to arrive early, grab a bite, and engage with fellow civic enthusiasts! From 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., enjoy lite appetizers (included with your ticket) at The Collective Seattle, and connect with the Seattle CityClub community before the evening’s conversation begins. Sip on a craft cocktail or mocktail and engage in meaningful discussions, before settling in for an evening of insight and engagement.

Seattle CityClub is a 40-year-old nonpartisan, civics-focused nonprofit, providing a platform for insightful and educational conversations that include a diverse range of perspectives.

Civic Cocktail connects elected and community leaders with the public for lively conversations about important issues facing our region. Whether you’re new to the Pacific Northwest, a self-described “civic nerd,” or looking to meet people engaged in their communities, your evening at this beloved program is sure to be friendly, fun, and fascinating. Civic Cocktail’s welcoming and conversational tone is inspired by our Dialogue Across Differences initiative. We hope you can join in person, where the conversation happens over tasty bites and festive libations, but you can still enjoy the experience wherever you are by watching virtually.

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Host or Publisher Seattle CityClub