Calling it a “football Christmas”, John Herdman is looking forward to Canada co-hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup. In January 2018, John became the Head Coach of the Canadian Men’s Soccer Team — a team that hasn’t played in a World Cup since 1986. He is no stranger to a challenge though, having led the Canadian Women’s Soccer team — a group once called a “struggling squad” — to winning two back-to-back bronze medals at the Olympic Games, and the first Pan Am gold in Canadian soccer history.
John sees this opportunity as a chance to revive the soccer program in Canada. He thinks it will encourage up and coming soccer stars to stay and play for their home country instead of seeking opportunities abroad with more established soccer teams.
In a CBC article, John said “That’s what this country has been missing. It’s been missing a reason and purpose to really want to put on that jersey. People have used it as a stepping stone in the past to further their careers and leave, but to stand in front of your own country and play in the World Cup changes everything.”
He says that eight years is more than enough time to build a competitive team and is focusing on preparing the men’s team to qualify for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Click here to watch his interview with TSN as he talks about what’s next for his squad.
John understands the importance vision, passion, and discipline play in achieving success and how to harness it, whether it’s on the field or in the office. Interested in learning more about John and what he can bring to your next event? Contact us at [email protected].