US President Donald Trump chaired the inaugural meeting of his administration’s 2026 World Cup taskforce on Tuesday, publicly outlining his administration’s ambitions for the tournament while brushing aside concerns over logistical challenges and diplomatic tensions.
Speaking alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino, Trump declared that the tournament — to be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico — would be the “biggest, safest, and most extraordinary soccer tournament in history.” He emphasized the expected economic impact, predicting “tens of billions of dollars” in activity for local businesses and the creation of “thousands and thousands of jobs” for American workers.
Infantino supported Trump’s optimistic outlook, citing projected figures of $50 billion in economic output and nearly 300,000 jobs tied to both the upcoming Club World Cup and the 2026 World Cup.
However, significant concerns remain about the US’s preparedness to host such a large-scale international event. A report earlier this year from a travel industry non-profit flagged potential obstacles including long visa wait times, aging infrastructure, and outdated security systems. These issues have reportedly worsened amid reductions in federal staffing under the Trump administration.
At Tuesday’s meeting, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem acknowledged that approximately 2 million foreign visitors are expected for the tournament. She assured that her department, in coordination with the State Department and the FBI, would ensure travel documentation processes run smoothly. Former US Soccer Federation president and current FIFA advisor Carlos Cordeiro will also assist in these preparations.
“America will welcome the world,” Infantino affirmed. “Everyone who wants to come here to enjoy, to have fun, to celebrate the game, will be able to do that.”
Still, officials made light-hearted yet pointed remarks about visitors overstaying their visas — a sensitive topic given the administration’s recent hardline immigration policies. “We want them to come, celebrate, and watch the games,” said Vice President JD Vance. “But when the time is up, they’ll have to go home — otherwise they’ll have to talk to Secretary Noem.”
Transportation challenges within host cities, most of which lack robust public transit networks, were also discussed. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy indicated that inter-city travel would be managed primarily with buses, noting that no permanent transit projects were planned in connection with the tournament. Duffy encouraged visitors to use the World Cup as an opportunity to explore the US but added a reminder: “Don’t overstay your visa.”
Trump also downplayed any potential strain in relations with co-hosts Mexico and Canada, noting that he had already discussed tournament coordination with Canada’s newly elected Prime Minister Mark Carney earlier in the day.
When asked about Russia’s ongoing ban from FIFA competitions following its 2022 invasion of Ukraine, Trump admitted he was unaware of the suspension. Infantino confirmed the ban, expressing hope that peace might pave the way for Russia’s eventual re-admittance.
