The Panamanian government is formulating a comprehensive national plan to leverage the country’s participation in the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026. Officials aim to promote Panama’s culture and national advantages on the global stage during the tournament. This strategic effort, known as the “Plan País,” seeks to maximize the impact of Panama’s presence in the prestigious sporting event.
Minister of the Presidency Juan Carlos Orillac led a coordination meeting this week to begin planning. The session included personnel from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Panama) and diplomats from countries where Panama’s national team will play its group stage matches. Panama competes in Group L alongside Ghana, Croatia, and England.
Strategic Planning at the Highest Level
The meeting took place at the Palacio de Las Garzas, the presidential office. Attendees included Panama’s designated ambassador to Canada, Ricardo Alemán, Consul in Houston Manuel Salerno, and Washington D.C. Ambassador José Miguel Alemán. Their collective focus was on transforming Panama’s World Cup stint into a broader national promotion.
Discussions covered several critical areas. Officials worked on drafting a concrete work plan and developing targeted communication strategies. They also identified key locations where additional diplomatic staff might be needed to support traveling citizens. Plans for a dedicated fan application and establishing technical support and emergency mechanisms for Panamanians abroad were also central topics.
“We are exploring the development of a Country Plan that we can implement to promote the culture and advantages of the nation within the framework of Panama’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup,” said Minister Juan Carlos Orillac. [Translated from Spanish]
The government is drawing lessons from Panama’s first-ever World Cup appearance in Russia 2018. Authorities are evaluating potential joint activities in host cities before and during the tournament. Cultural activations at official Fan Fest zones and pop-up events are under consideration. The preparation of mobile consular services to assist fans is another priority based on past experience.
Logistics and National Support for Global Stage
This initiative represents a significant inter-agency collaboration for the Government of Panama. It moves beyond simple athletic support to encompass a full-scale national branding and logistics operation. The goal is to ensure both the team and its supporters have a seamless, positive experience that reflects well on the country.
A follow-up meeting is scheduled for January 5 to track the progress of these actions. The plans explicitly include providing all necessary support to the members of the national soccer team. This holistic approach treats the team’s journey as a catalyst for international engagement.
Minister juan carlos orillac is coordinating this cross-governmental effort. His leadership underscores the project’s high priority within the administration. For Panama, the World Cup is more than a series of matches. It is a unique diplomatic and cultural opportunity with a massive built-in audience.
Panama’s matches will be spread across the United States and Canada. This geographical spread necessitates intricate planning to serve fans and execute promotional activities in multiple locations simultaneously. The government’s early start on this plan indicates a serious commitment to making a lasting impression.
Success would mean not just celebrating goals on the field but also achieving tangible benefits in tourism, trade, and international recognition. The world will be watching in 2026. Panama intends to be ready.