Seattle FIFA World Cup 26™ Organizing Committee Appoints Lisa Chin as Chief Legacy Officer

Mazvita Maraire, SeattleFWC26 Writer

SeattleFWC26, the local organizing committee for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, has made its first major move in fulfilling its unwavering dedication to creating a profound and enduring legacy. SeattleFWC26 has hired Lisa Chin as its new Chief Legacy Officer. This is the first, as of now, and only dedicated legacy position within an executive team across the 16 host cities.

This strategic move emphasizes SeattleFWC26’s commitment to their legacy pillars of Human Rights, Accessibility, Environmental Sustainability, Culture, Community, and Children. SeattleFWC26 intends to foster cultural significance and generate positive change within the diverse communities and cities that make up Washington, thanks to the vast megaphone that FIFA provides.
“In 1962, the World’s Fair transformed Seattle into a hub for science and technology, and we aim to replicate this transformative effect with the FIFA World Cup 26™. The creation of the Chief Legacy Officer role and securing Lisa Chin’s expertise mark pivotal initial steps towards realizing this vision,” said Peter Tomozawa, Chief Executive Officer, SeattleFWC26. “Lisa’s exceptional leadership of organizations that serve our most vulnerable communities, including children, women, and BIPOC individuals and families, aligns with our core values of human rights, diversity, equity and inclusion, and sustainability.”

Chin brings a wealth of experience to this role, having previously served as the CEO for Treehouse, a local non-profit serving youth in foster care. Under her leadership, the organization underwent a transformative reorganization, expanding its reach to more youth than ever before. Before that she was the CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of King County, recruited to guide the turn-around of the third largest Boys & Girls Club in the US, enabling them to reach their potential. Also, the Executive Director of two other organizations, Lisa holds vital positions on multiple boards supporting women, children, the arts, education, and more.

SeattleFWC26’s first legacy initiatives included its collaboration with the Seattle Sounders FC charitable arm, Rave Foundation, to launch the 26 Fields by 2026 campaign, bringing play equity to youth in our state by building 26 fields by the year 2026 in historically marginalized communities. Additionally, the organization formed a historic partnership with the Puyallup Tribe of Indians as the official legacy supporter for Seattle 26, making this the first time in FIFA men’s World Cup history that an indigenous people will formally participate.

“Building an exceptional team of individuals with the expertise and determination to bring our vision to life is perhaps the most vital role I have. Chin’s proven track record, extensive network, and commitment to our organization’s mission make her the most qualified individual to lead our efforts in establishing a legacy befitting the hosting of the 2026 World Cup Games,” closed Tomozawa.

About SeattleFWC26

SeattleFWC26 is the local organizing committee for Seattle’s participation as one of the 16 host cities selected for the FIFA World Cup 26™. As a not-for-profit organization, SeattleFWC26’s vision is to foster a lasting legacy for our region, guided by the spirit of soccer, innovation, and inclusion. To keep up to date on the latest news and involvement opportunities with SeattleFWC26, please register at seattlefwc26.org/get-involved  

About FIFA World Cup 26™

The FIFA World Cup 26™will be the biggest sporting event ever – three Host Countries, 16 Host Cities, 48 teams, and 104 matches uniting an entire continent to showcase a momentous new tournament format while keeping the exciting 4-team groups to ensure the ultimate football spectacle. With more countries, cities, teams, and games, FIFA World Cup 26™ will unite the entire world on the biggest stage ever and will engage millions of fans across 16 stadiums and billions worldwide. The tournament will take place in June and July 2026. For the latest FIFA World Cup 26™ information please register via the FIFA Media Hub and visit the FIFA World Cup 26™ website