This week, we’re analysing the massive PR decisions happening behind the upcoming FIFA World Cup! We’re taking a look at the early defining moments for FIFA and the players involved - or not. From Canadian bars to the families of unpicked superstars, there’s a lot to unpack, so join us on our latest episode of Where Pop Culture Meets PR!

In this episode:

• The PR playbook for the first-ever 48-team World Cup across the US, Canada, and Mexico
• Why UK player Harry Maguire’s social media reaction is being viewed as a PR misstep
• How FIFA’s "inclusive and diverse" marketing strategy is clashing with real-world geopolitical tensions
• Why lack of "reputation management" is the biggest invisible cost for major sporting events in 2026

For more expert PR insight, subscribe and join us every week on Where Pop Culture Meets PR.

00:00 Introduction to the FIFA World Cup 2026

01:45 Personal perspectives on the World Cup

05:34 PR strategies for major events

10:44 FIFA's Reputation and Challenges

13:55 Crisis Management and PR responses

19:13 FIFA's ‘Vision and Mission’: A short-sighted approach?

23:17 Harry Maguire's exclusion: A personal and professional perspective

34:59 The World Cup excitement: Balancing concerns and anticipation

#WorldCup2026 #FIFA #HarryMaguire #SportsPR #WherePopCultureMeetsPR #ThomasTuchel #CrisisCommunication #FootballStrategy #SportsMarketing

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.