As preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2026™ enter its execution stage, the New York New Jersey Host Committee brought in long time sports business leader Fred Mangione to fill the role of chief business officer.
Mangione will lead the Host Committee’s revenue-generation efforts, including commercial partnerships with the region’s business community. He will focus on ensuring that the economic benefits of New York New Jersey’s eight World Cup matches — including the Final — are shared across all communities in the region.
He has spent three decades leading sports properties in this region, including serving as the senior vice president of sales & marketing for the New York Jets. Over six seasons with the team, Mangione spearheaded innovative strategies across ticketing, marketing, and premium partnerships, helping position the Jets among the NFL’s top performers in ticketing revenue and game attendance.
Mangione also led the team’s 2019 rebrand, which included new uniforms, logos and overall identity represented at Metlife Stadium, the Atlantic Health Jets Training Center and all across all Jets platforms and properties.
“Fred brings an unparalleled track record of driving revenue growth, building world-class commercial partnerships, and engaging our region’s sports fans in innovative ways,” said Alex Lasry, CEO of the Host Committee. “We are confident that Fred’s vision and skillset will elevate our efforts as we prepare to host the biggest sporting event in history.”
Experienced Veteran, Top Brands in Sports
Mangione brings a wealth of expertise in ticketing, operations, marketing and revenue generation for live sports and entertainment events in the NYNJ region. Most recently, Mangione’s agency MM Sports Consulting provided commercial and marketing services to some of the leading brands in the sports industry, including the BIG 12 Conference, New York Islanders and New York Red Bulls, to name a few.
Prior to his time with the Jets, Mangione spent 18 years with Brooklyn Sports & Entertainment in various leadership roles, including chief operating officer. He oversaw business operations, programming, marketing, and revenue for the parent company of the Brooklyn Nets, Barclays Center, New York Islanders, and Nassau Coliseum.
Mangione played a pivotal role in the Nets’ 2012 relocation to Brooklyn and is credited with bringing marquee live events to Barclays Center, including the NBA Draft, WWE SummerSlam and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony.
Building Partnerships, Making History
A native of Jefferson, New Jersey, Mangione is a graduate of Centenary University and currently resides in Glen Rock, New Jersey with his family.
“I am beyond excited to be a part of this historic event. Nothing will be bigger than the Final in this market. The FIFA World Cup 2026™ is an opportunity for brands to connect with a global audience through the lens of the most dynamic, diverse and influential region in the world,” said Mangione.
“Our mission is to build partnerships that not only power the tournament, but also leave a lasting impact on local communities and businesses across New York and New Jersey. We’re inviting forward-thinking brands to be part of this and make history with us,” he added.
The Biggest Sporting Event in the World
FIFA World Cup 2026™ will be the biggest sporting event ever — three Host Countries, 16 Host Cities, 48 teams, and 104 matches will unite an entire continent to showcase a momentous new tournament format. The event will culminate with the Final at New York New Jersey Stadium (MetLife Stadium) on July 19, 2026, complemented by unprecedented fan experiences throughout the NYNJ region.
Learn more about FIFA World Cup 2026™ matches being held in NYNJ via the Host Committee’s website, Instagram, X, Facebook, and TikTok.
Fans can pre-register for FIFA World Cup 2026™ tickets at fifa.com/tickets. Pre-registrations for hospitality package information are also available at fifa.com/hospitality.
About FIFA World Cup 2026TM New York New Jersey Host Committee
The FIFA World Cup 2026™ New York New Jersey Host Committee is the local organizing body responsible for delivering eight FIFA World Cup 2026™ matches in the NYNJ region, including the Final match. The organization coordinates between key city and state stakeholders and FIFA to ensure world-class planning and delivery of infrastructure, facilities, and services.
The committee’s goal is to create the most engaging, accessible, and impactful FIFA World Cup 2026™ experience for all fans, athletes, partners, and NYNJ communities.