On Wednesday, October 28, 2026, the Pepperdine School of Public Policy convened key leaders from LA28, the Wilson Center, and the U.S. Department of State for a panel titled "Public–Private Leadership in Global Sport: Shaping FIFA World Cup 2026 and the Road to LA28."

Against a backdrop of economic shifts and geopolitical competition, mega-sporting events offer a rare global arena to connect nations, businesses, and communities across borders. Panelists explored how the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the LA28 Olympic Games serve as vital vehicles for sports diplomacy—building international trust, expanding soft power, and promoting sustainable development. The discussion underscored how strategic public-private collaboration can yield long-term benefits far beyond the stadium.