A New Generation of Sports Communicators
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will not only showcase the talent of players across the globe but also highlight the behind‑the‑scenes professionals who keep the tournament’s media engine running smoothly. Two Florida International University alumni, Gabriel Gabor and Marisabel Muñoz, have emerged as key figures in this arena, leveraging their FIU education and decades of experience at Major League Soccer to shape how the world watches the tournament.
Gabriel Gabor, an international communication executive at MLS, serves as a FIFA World Cup Media Officer and oversees media operations at the Monterrey venue in Mexico. Gabor’s career with MLS began in 1998 when he headed communications for the former Miami Fusion. Over the years, he has witnessed the league’s evolution from a modest venture into a globally recognized competition that now spans 30 clubs across the United States and Canada. Reflecting on his journey, Gabor credits his FIU training for equipping him with the adaptability and strategic mindset needed in today’s fast‑moving sports environment.
Marisabel Muñoz, senior vice president for communications at Major League Soccer, brings nearly 25 years of league experience to the World Cup stage. As a FIFA Media Officer, she emphasizes the collaborative efforts between FIFA and MLS communications teams, noting that the tournament’s reach across 13 MLS cities offers a unique platform to amplify the league’s growth story. Muñoz points to the World Cup as a catalyst that will further cement MLS’s status on the international stage, while also underscoring the importance of FIU’s community and Miami’s global identity in shaping professional perspectives.
The impact of these alumni extends beyond their immediate roles. Professor Lillian Lodge Kopenhaver, a faculty member in FIU’s School of Communication, has praised Gabor and Muñoz as exceptional role models for current students. She highlights their ability to navigate complex, high‑pressure environments and to build lasting relationships across cultures. Both Gabor and Muñoz encourage aspiring sports communicators to focus on gaining hands‑on experience, staying adaptable, and cultivating strong networks — principles they say were instilled during their time at FIU.
As the 2026 World Cup approaches, the contributions of Gabor and Muñoz illustrate how a solid academic foundation combined with real‑world experience can position graduates at the forefront of global sports storytelling. Their work not only reflects the growing influence of MLS but also signals a broader shift toward more dynamic, internationally integrated sports communication practices.