President Donald Trump has established a dedicated task force to oversee preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will take place across North America.
The tournament is set to take place amid ongoing trade disputes fueled by fluctuating tariffs and diplomatic tensions among the host nations.
“I think it’s going to make it more exciting,” Trump said. “Tension’s a good thing.”
The newly formed task force, which Trump will personally chair, will be responsible for co-ordinating federal security efforts and logistical planning.
With millions of international visitors expected to arrive in the United States, Canada, and Mexico for the tournament, the group’s work will be essential in ensuring smooth operations.
Following discussions with FIFA officials, Trump expressed his enthusiasm for hosting the event, saying: “It’s a great honor for our country to have it.”
Trump has repeatedly threatened to impose tariffs, only to reverse course later, which has unsettled financial markets.
President Trump signs executive order creating FIFA World Cup Task Force.
When asked about how the halftime show of World Cup final will compare to the Super Bowl: “I think it’ll be better.” pic.twitter.com/kvXhDCRyFC
— CSPAN (@cspan) March 7, 2025
Additionally, his remarks about Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and musings about Canada potentially becoming a US state have sparked reactions north of the border.
For the 2026 tournament, FIFA has expanded the competition to 48 teams, resulting in 104 matches played across the three host countries.
The United States will host the majority of the games, with 78 matches taking place within its borders. Mexico and Canada will each stage 13 games, with as many as six matches occurring daily.
The tournament will culminate in a final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 19.
During his visit to the White House, FIFA President Gianni Infantino emphasised the importance of creating a welcoming and secure environment for attendees.
He said: “So we’re here to create and to make the best show on the planet ever.”
He also presented Trump with a personalised game ball and unveiled the trophy that will be awarded to the winner of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, a precursor tournament featuring top club teams from around the world.
