A West Vancouver resident has been appointed to the Order of British Columbia, the province’s highest honour, ahead of an investiture ceremony this fall.
Concacaf President and FIFA Vice President Victor Montagliani was recognized for elevating soccer from East Vancouver to the world stage, championing the sport’s growth, and playing a role in bringing the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2015 and FIFA World Cup 2026 to communities across B.C. and Canada, according to the news release by Gov BC.
Montagliani is one of 12 people being invested into the order this year. According to the news release, the ceremony will take place at Government House in Victoria on Sept. 24, 2026.
Lieutenant Governor Wendy Cocchia, who serves as Chancellor of the Order of British Columbia, said recognizing the 12 individuals was a profound privilege. She said their achievements reflect the province’s spirit of compassion, innovation and dedication to the common good, and that they are helping build a brighter future for B.C.
The Order of B.C. was established in 1989 and celebrates excellence across all walks of life and fields of endeavour, according to the news release.
Premier David Eby said each recipient has made an outstanding contribution to the province and the world beyond, praising their hard work, innovation and leadership.
Other 2026 recipients named alongside Montagliani include individuals from Prince George, Township of Langley, Vancouver, Surrey, Salt Spring Island, Savona, Victoria and Burnaby. One recipient, Jill Bodkin of Vancouver, has chosen to defer her investiture to a future ceremony.
