Greening the Game: Sustainability Lessons from FIFA World Cup 2026
What does sustainability look like behind the scenes of the FIFA World Cup? In this fireside chat, Sarah Hussain, Head of Environment for FIFA World Cup 2026, shares her journey across energy, tech, and sports, and what it takes to drive environmental impact at a global scale. Moderated by Radha Balani, Expert Partner at Think Beyond and a leading voice in purpose-driven sports strategy, the conversation will explore how South Asian professionals can build careers at the intersection of sustainability, leadership, and sport.
Date: Tuesday, February 10th, 2026 | 6pm EST
Guest Speaker: Sarah Hussain
Sarah has over a decade of experience in the Sustainability field. She started out in the Oil and Gas industry focusing on environmental compliance and carbon reduction efforts within various operations. Her career took her to the Technology world where she led sustainability management systems and built corporate sustainability strategies from the ground up. She is now the Head of Environment for FIFA26, where she leads a team across the three host countries to deliver a sustainability legacy around mega sporting events in North America. She hails from Houston, Texas, but currently resides in Miami, Florida where she manages the Sustainability Agenda from FIFA26 headquarters.
Moderator: Radha Balani
RB is one of the forerunners in creating purpose-driven programming and revenue enhancing strategies in and through sport. For over two decades, she has developed strategies, narratives, and programs for teams, leagues, brands, governing bodies, non-profits, and personalities. RB has delivered work around the world for the likes of The NFL, Bloomberg, Rexona (Degree), NASCAR, Audible, ESPN, The North Face, Liverpool FC, U.S. Soccer, Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities, Special Olympics, The Players’ Coalition, SunLife, and numerous other national and international organizations, initiatives, and programs. She also leads all our youth leadership work, notably designing and delivering programs for both Billie Jean King and Michael Johnson.
About South Asians in Sports (SAIS)
South Asians in Sports is the premier network of professionals across the sports industry. From the field to the front office, we're building a global community that connects, amplifies, and elevates South Asian excellence in sports. Learn more at sainsports.com.