Written by: In the Community

FIFA World Cup 2026™ Miami Host Committee reveals world-class leadership

The FIFA World Cup 2026™ Miami Host Committee is charging ahead in its orchestration of the world’s largest sporting spectacle, naming key members of its leadership team which will play a pivotal role in creating an indelible legacy on South Florida. Global business executive Lisa Lutoff-Perlo will serve as CEO & President, becoming one of the first former CEOs from outside the sports world to lead a FIFA World Cup 2026™ Host Committee. Lutoff-Perlo and her team will drive strong collaboration between South Florida’s public and private sector leaders in preparation of welcoming up to 600,000 fans to the region in summer 2026, whether lucky enough to attend any of the seven matches, including the Bronze Final, at the iconic Miami Stadium (Hard Rock Stadium)*, or reveling with other football fanatics at watch parties or events. 

“The spotlight will be on Miami as an international business and lifestyle capital during FIFA World Cup 2026™. We sought a CEO and leader who understands this opportunity and brings a global perspective, true vision, and tremendous passion to deliver an unforgettable experience for fans while maximizing the economic impact for the region,” said Rodney Barreto, chairman and CEO of the Barreto Group, and co-chair of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ Miami Host Committee. “Lisa has all these traits, and her extraordinary business and hospitality experience will help her rise to this monumental occasion to foster both an original and bottom-line approach that will make us the envy of the North American host cities.”  

Over the past four decades, Lutoff-Perlo has become a recognized hospitality trailblazer holding various executive positions, including CEO of Celebrity Cruises for almost a decade. Leading the multi-billion-dollar brand, she drove unprecedented growth, redefined the brand’s relaxed luxury positioning, introducing several new ship series, and guided the cruise line’s return to sailing following the pandemic shutdown. A South Florida resident, she is currently on the board of directors for AutoNation (NYSE: AN) and currently serves as chair of the United Way of Broward County. During her storied career, she has received numerous lifetime achievement awards and distinctions from organizations such as Forbes, PR Week, and the Eleanor Roosevelt Foundation, in addition to numerous South Florida institutions.  

“South Florida is no stranger to championship events, and the FIFA World Cup 2026 will be the biggest sporting event the world has ever seen. I want to capitalize on this platform, bringing my expertise to create an enviable World Cup experience and to drive unparalleled positive social and economic impact for the region,” said Lutoff-Perlo. “This golden opportunity demands our team innovate, be inclusive, and supercharge excitement around the tournament.”  

Lutoff-Perlo added, “I can’t wait to start engaging with my team and our co-chairs, board members, and executive advisory board to establish Miami as the unquestioned champion host city and make the entire region proud.” 

Helping rally support of businesses, fans, and civic organizations, Lutoff-Perlo’s accomplished leadership team will include Janelle Prieto as chief marketing and community officer and Ray Martinez as chief operating officer.  

A Miami native, Prieto is a seasoned marketing and PR leader who has played an integral role in delivering world-class events to her hometown that create meaningful social change through community development and reinvestment. Prior to joining the FIFA World Cup 2026ä operations team, she led corporate communications, public relations, and social responsibility for its Host Confederation, the Confederation of North, Central America, and Caribbean Association Football (Concacaf); served as Vice President of Communications, Marketing, and Community Partnerships for the Miami Super Bowl LIV Host Committee; and held executive positions with Diageo and Jackson Memorial Hospital Foundation.  

Previously serving as President and Executive Director for the 2020 Miami Super Bowl Committee, Martinez also has more than 35 years of law enforcement experience, including as Miami Beach chief of police. His additional relevant experience includes consulting for the College Football Playoff 2021 National Championship Game, leading security for Ultra Music Festival, and acting as an adjunct professor at Florida International University’s School of Hospitality.  

“It’s exciting times for Miami-Dade and South Florida as the community prepares and plans for the World Cup 2026. Today’s news that Lisa Lutoff-Perlo will lead the professional team as CEO and President is great momentum as the work continues to get ready for 2026. I have great trust that the Board of Directors comprised of community and business leaders will work alongside the leadership of Lisa and her team to make sure South Florida shines on the global stage during this once-in-a-lifetime event,” said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and head of the Host Committee’s executive advisory board.  

 “We are delighted with the appointment of Lisa Lutoff-Perlo as CEO. Her world-class background as CEO of Celebrity Cruises at Royal Caribbean Group, along with the team built of proven corporate, community and sports leaders, will together provide the leadership to deliver this global event,” said Beau Ferrari, NBCUniversal and co-chair of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ Miami Host Committee.  

The FIFA World Cup 2026™ is anticipated to be one of the most significant sporting events globally, hosted jointly by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. This edition will feature an expanded format with 48 teams, providing more nations with the opportunity to participate. The shared effort between the three host countries reflects the tournament’s ability to unite nations through the universal language of football and competition, drawing massive global attention and fostering a lasting impact on host nations. 

(Visited 118 times, 1 visits today)
Last modified: May 3, 2024