Colin Smith is leaving his role as FIFA’s World Cup chief operating officer, the world governing body has confirmed.
Smith has led the planning for this summer’s Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, which starts next month, and the men’s tournament in 2026, which will be held across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
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The 2026 tournament, which will be the first to be held across three countries, will host games in 16 venues across 16 cities, 11 of which are in the United States, two in Canada, and three in Mexico.
Last month, the launch of the 2026 tournament branding attracted much criticism particularly around the logo, which was seen by many as plain and uninspiring, focussing on the trophy.
FIFA said it wanted to bring the World Cup trophy to the forefront of the logo and to create a system that could be reused in future tournaments and feel “iconic” to all age groups.
However, there was discontent internally at FIFA and among the host cities about the impact of the launch.
FIFA sources, speaking to The Athletic anonymously to protect their positions, said the split with Smith was amicable and that he thanked staff for their work over the years.
The World Cup division at FIFA will be led on an interim basis by Heimo Schirgi, Smith’s deputy.
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.”
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FIFA unveils 2026 World Cup branding
(Photo: Getty Images)
