Game On: How Silicon Valley Businesses Can Prepare for the FIFA World Cup and 2026 Super Bowl

At our first Silicon Valley Real Estate Breakfast of 2025, Hoge Fenton welcomed a dynamic panel of leaders deeply involved in the region’s preparations for two major global sporting events: the FIFA World Cup and the 2026 Super Bowl.

Panelists included:

• Leah Toeniskoetter, CEO, San Jose Chamber of Commerce
• John Poch, San Jose Sports Authority
• Ruth Shikada, Bay Area Host Committee
• Tommy O’Hare, Director of Sports and Special Events, City of San Jose
• Moderator: Councilmember Michael Mulcahy

These events represent more than just game day—they’re a chance for Santa Clara County to showcase itself as a premier destination to fly, stay, and play. From civic pride to business innovation, the entire region can benefit—if we prepare strategically.

Key Takeaways for Local Stakeholders:

Business Owners: Host, Celebrate, Engage

• Create experiences for those who can’t attend the games—think watch parties, themed events, and local tie-ins.
• Keep the energy going pre- and post-game. According to Tommy O’Hare, the goal is to make the entire region part of the experience.
• Connect with local sports history and build civic excitement through branding and storytelling.

Property Owners and Investors: Fill the Gaps

• Leah Toeniskoetter encouraged locals to “be the Ubers and Airbnbs”—there’s opportunity in short-term rentals and hospitality.
• The Bay Area Host Committee is actively supporting new projects like hotels, public parks, and other visitor-focused infrastructure.
• Ruth Shikada noted that the Host Committee remains active after events and is a resource for long-term planning—bring well-developed proposals early to gain traction.

Nonprofits & Community Leaders: Leverage the Spotlight

• Partner with teams and athletes for appearances and fundraising events.
• Align your mission with the excitement of these events to inspire new audiences.

Civic Engagement: Everyone Can Be a Doer, Donor, or Door Opener

• John Poch emphasized that everyone can contribute to the vision—whether by funding, facilitating connections, or volunteering.
• Local pride is essential. San Jose’s walkable downtown, airport access, light rail system, and venues like SAP Center and PayPal Park make it ideal for hosting world-class events.

Beyond Sports: Positioning Silicon Valley as a Cultural Hub

Councilmember Michael Mulcahy reminded us that Silicon Valley is already a major event destination—from NVIDIA’s GTC Conference to FanimeCon to SAP Center concerts. These sporting events are just part of a broader opportunity to boost our hospitality, entertainment, and tourism economies.

Hoge Fenton is proud to bring the real estate community together to strategize around these transformative moments. Our team—alongside our panelists’ organizations—is here to help you make the most of them.

Let’s suit up, Silicon Valley. Game on.