Sunil Gulati: The Indian American Architect Behind Soccer’s Rise in the United States

Sunil Gulati, an Indian American, has been a central figure in the development of soccer in the United States. Born in India and raised in the U.S., Gulati's journey in the sport began as a referee and coach before he moved into administrative roles.

He served as president of the U.S. Soccer Federation from 2006 to 2018, overseeing a period of significant growth for the sport. During his tenure, the U.S. hosted the 2016 Copa América Centenario and successfully bid to co-host the 2026 FIFA World Cup with Canada and Mexico.

Gulati also played a crucial role in the establishment of Major League Soccer (MLS) in the 1990s, working as a consultant and later as a member of the league's board of governors. His efforts helped professionalize the sport and expand its reach across the country.

Beyond his administrative work, Gulati has been a professor of economics at Columbia University, where he has taught since 1989. His academic background in economics has informed his approach to sports management, emphasizing financial sustainability and strategic growth.