It was only the fourth of June when ‘The Engine behind the World Cup’ – as the staff refers to their own headquarters – received a visit from FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who was pleased to confirm that everything is running according to plan.
The FIFA President did, however, pause at the name that the managers who greeted him had given their headquarters.
– I think it is more the heart of the entire tournament, the powerful Italian FIFA boss corrected them, continuing: – It makes it more human.
A sentiment no one could reasonably argue with. Following this, Infantino continued his 'tour' around the headquarters.
Watch the video of the visit here, at the TOC, Tournament Operations Centre.
The heart, the brain, and thus the entire focal point of the tournament. 5,000 FIFA employees are working across 500 checkpoints in the 16 host cities.
– Every functional area has its own database, explained Heimo Schirgi, Chief Operating Officer for the 2026 World Cup. This work has been developed in partnership with Lenovo, and all the threads are pulled together in what is known as the “Tournament Cockpit.”
The FIFA boss concluded his visit with a pep talk to the headquarters staff: “Carry this work with you with fondness. It is something you will be able to tell your families, your children, and your grandchildren one day,” the FIFA President concluded.
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