Unsung Hero Gladys Torres dreams of five more FIFA World Cups

Gladys Torres is used to giving to others. She cared for patients for 44 years. She has volunteered for decades. She is always prepared to help, her laughter and motivation never far away. For her, it is all about going above and beyond. “I give 300 percent,” she said. But during the FIFA World Cup 2026™ in Houston, Texas, the roles were suddenly reversed. Several of her fellow volunteers, Houston’s Venue Operations Director and the three FIFA World Cup 2026™ mascots didn’t pass up the opportunity to make it about her. They organised a surprise for the 71-year-old in recognition of being named Houston’s FIFA World Cup 2026 Unsung Hero and gave her a miniature FIFA World Cup™ Trophy. For a woman whose life has long been shaped by football, sports and a desire to help others, it was a truly special moment.