The Boston Host Committee for the FIFA World Cup 26™ today announced State Street Corporation Chairman and CEO Ron O’Hanley will chair the newly formed Boston 26 Honorary Board. This group will be comprised of public and private sector leaders who will provide strategic guidance and vision to Boston 26, the non-profit organization responsible for the FIFA World Cup 26™ tournament preparations and celebrations in the Boston region.
“The FIFA World Cup 26 will be the largest sporting event in history and presents an extraordinary opportunity for Massachusetts to shine on the global stage, with a significant economic impact of well over $1 billion expected for the state and the region,” said Governor Maura Healey. “With his leadership experience and extensive community involvement, Ron will be a great asset to the important work ahead for the Boston 26 Honorary Board. I’m thrilled that he will be leading this effort as Chair.”
“On and off the field, Boston is known across the country and globe for our ability to work together and deliver for our communities,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “The FIFA World Cup 26 is a generational opportunity to showcase Boston and the region to visitors and viewers on the world stage. Ron is an outstanding, collaborative leader who will help bring public and private stakeholders together over the next 18 months to ensure a successful and enjoyable experience for residents and visitors alike. We look forward to partnering with Ron and the Boston 26 Honorary Board to deliver the best experience to all.”
“Serving as a host for the FIFA World Cup is a once-in-generation opportunity and it’s tremendous for Boston to be selected as a Host City for an impressive seven matches,” said O’Hanley. “It is an honor to take on the role of Boston 26 Honorary Board Chair, and over the coming months we will assemble a seasoned and passionate group of leaders who will maximize the economic and social impact for our region, and help demonstrate to the world the best of Boston and the Commonwealth.”
O’Hanley also serves on boards including Unum Corp., Beth Israel Lahey Health, Syracuse University Board of Trustees, WBUR, the Sustainable Markets Initiative, and the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston. He serves as Chair of the Massachusetts Competitive Partnership (MACP) and former Chair of the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce and the Financial Services Forum.