Centenary alumnus named chief business officer for FIFA World Cup 2026 NY/NJ Host Committee
HACKETTSTOWN, N.J. (Warren County) — Centenary University alumnus Fred Mangione ’93/15 HA will play a central role in one of the world’s most prestigious sporting events next summer — the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Mangione recently signed on as chief business officer for the tournament’s New York New Jersey Host Committee. The region will host the FIFA World Cup final July 19 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., along with seven preliminary rounds in June and July at venues across the area.
“Nothing will be bigger than the final in this market,” Mangione said. “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. We’re inviting forward-thinking brands to be part of this—and make history with us.”
A current member of the Centenary University Board of Trustees, Mangione has drawn on decades of experience in ticketing, operations and revenue generation in live sports and entertainment to mentor Centenary students and alumni. Before launching MM Sports Consulting, he served in leadership roles with the New York Jets and Brooklyn Sports & Entertainment — parent company of the Barclays Center, Nassau Coliseum, Brooklyn Nets and New York Islanders.
In his new role, Mangione will focus on revenue generation, cultivating business partnerships and ensuring that economic benefits of the event reach communities across the region.
“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,” Host Committee CEO Alex Lasry said. “We are confident that Fred’s vision and skillset will elevate our efforts as we prepare to host the biggest sporting event in history.”
