World Cup boss Smith exits FIFA

June 6 – Colin Smith (pictured) will exit FIFA as World Cup chief operating officer ahead of the Women’s World Cup this year and the expanded 48-team men’s event in 2026

A long time senior executive at FIFA, Smith has been in charge of planning the Women’s World Cup this summer in Australia and New Zealand as well as the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

Smith is now on the way out at FIFA, but reports are that his departure is on amicable terms. In a statement, FIFA said: “After delivering successful FIFA World Cups, as well as our many other tournaments and events, Colin Smith will be departing FIFA to take on new professional challenges. We would like to thank Colin for his years of service at FIFA and wish him all the best in his future endeavors.”

In 2015, Smith arrived in Zurich to take on the role of events director before he moved to become chief of competitions a year later. From July 2022, he served as World Cup COO. He oversaw the delivery of the 2022 World Cup in partnership with the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy, Qatar’s local organising committee. 

He had previously served in roles at the Pro League in the United Arab Emirates and PGA golf.  Smith will be replaced on an interim basis by Heimo Schirgi, his deputy. 

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