Former Kenya’s national women’s football team Harambee Starlets defender, Terry Ouko, who has been appointed by FIFA as the Sustainability and Human Rights Venue Manager at the iconic Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia.
Her appointment places her at the heart of one of the World Cup’s key venues ahead of the tournament set to kick off this week amid global anticipation and high expectations.
In her expanded role at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Ouko will operate at the matchday leadership level, ensuring that FIFA’s core principles around inclusion, safeguarding and environmental responsibility are not just policy documents but actively implemented realities.
Her work will involve coordinating anti-discrimination measures, enforcing safeguarding standards and ensuring sustainability practices are embedded in the daily operations of the venue.
The Mercedes-Benz Stadium, branded as Atlanta Stadium for the duration of the tournament, is set to host five group-stage matches involving teams from Groups A, C, H, and K.
The venue, already known globally as the home of NFL side Atlanta Falcons and MLS club Atlanta United FC, is expected to become one of the tournament’s most vibrant stages.
“This is not just about managing a venue. It is about protecting dignity, promoting equality, and ensuring sustainability is not a slogan but a lived reality at a World Cup stage,” she said.
A former national team defender, she later transitioned into sports journalism before fully immersing herself in football governance and development work.
Over the years, she has built an impressive portfolio that includes serving as Vice President of the Kenya Footballers’ Welfare Association (KEFWA) and being a member of the FIFPRO board.
Additionally, she has held leadership positions within the Futsal and Beach Soccer Committee as well as the Women and Youth Development Committee under the Africa Beach Soccer Union (ABSU).
