Carlie Irsay-Gordon Named 2026 International Citizen of the Year by The International Center
INDIANAPOLIS (Feb. 13, 2026) — The International Center announced today that Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Owner and Chief Executive Officer of the Indianapolis Colts, has been named the recipient of its prestigious 2026 International Citizen of the Year Award.
The award honors individuals whose leadership advances global engagement, strengthens international collaboration, and fosters cross-cultural understanding. Irsay-Gordon was selected in recognition of her visionary leadership and commitment to positioning an Indiana-based organization as a meaningful presence on the global stage.
Under Irsay-Gordon’s leadership, the Colts have significantly expanded their international footprint through participation in the NFL’s Global Markets Program, securing strategic marketing rights in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. These efforts reflect a deliberate investment in international outreach, relationship-building, and cultural exchange.
Most notably, the Colts recently served as the designated “home” team for a regular-season NFL game in Berlin, Germany — a milestone that underscored the franchise’s role in strengthening transatlantic ties and promoting global connection through sport. The achievement highlights the growing role of professional sports as a platform for international engagement and people-to-people diplomacy.
“Carlie Irsay-Gordon’s leadership demonstrates how Indiana institutions can have a meaningful global impact,” said Martin Baier, President and Chief Executive Officer of The International Center. “Her influence extends well beyond sport and illustrates how intentional international engagement can foster cultural understanding and lasting global relationships.”
Through these efforts, Irsay-Gordon has elevated not only the Colts’ international presence, but also Indiana’s reputation as a globally engaged state committed to building bridges across borders.
Irsay-Gordon will be honored by The International Center during its annual International Citizen of the Year ceremony on October 13th from 6-9pm at the Indiana Roof Ballroom, 140 W. Washington Street, Indianapolis. For more information about The International Center’s International Citizen of the Year celebration, contact Kristie Johnson, Vice President of Development and External Affairs, at kjohnson@internationalcenter.org.
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About The International Center: For more than 50 years, The International Center has served as a guide to the world’s cultural landscape and a catalyst for the state’s international growth. Working in collaboration with businesses, organizations, government agencies, educational institutions, and individual citizens, The Center expands Indiana’s global interest through a variety of programs and services and through convening diverse interests that share common international goals. The International Center is a member of Global Ties U.S.
About the International Citizen of the Year Award: Since 1985, The International Center has honored individuals who have made outstanding contributions to Indiana and the world in the fields of business, culture, education, government, medicine, media, research, sports, or community service. Community luminaries who have been honored with the International Citizen of the Year award include former Governor Eric J. Holcomb, John C. Lechleiter, former Mayor Greg and Winnie Ballard, James T. Morris, KP Singh, the Honorable Richard Lugar, Lee Hamilton, and Ambassador Randall L. Tobias, and Tamika Catchings among others.
