Sunil Gulati was elected president of the U.S. Soccer Federation in 2006, becoming the first person of Indian descent to lead a major American sports governing body. During his 12-year tenure, he oversaw significant commercial growth, two FIFA World Cup hosting bids, and the successful campaign that secured the 2026 FIFA World Cup for the United States, Canada, and Mexico. His leadership elevated American soccer’s global standing and expanded Indian American influence in the governance of U.S. sports.
