Washington, March 8 — President Donald Trump established a task force on Friday to oversee security and logistical preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The move comes as tensions persist between the host nations, fueled by Trump’s tariff threats and sharp rhetoric toward Canadian and Mexican leaders.
“Tension’s a good thing,” Trump said, referring to the strained relations between the countries. “I think it’s going to make it more exciting.”
The task force, which Trump will chair, will coordinate the federal government’s role in ensuring safety and managing the influx of millions of tourists expected to attend. FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who met with Trump at the White House, expressed confidence in the preparations.
“Every visitor coming to North America should feel safe, feel happy, and know we’re creating something special,” Infantino said.
Expanded Format, Massive Logistics
The 2026 World Cup marks the first time the tournament will be hosted by three nations. It will also feature an expanded format, with 48 teams playing 104 matches—78 in the U.S., and 13 each in Canada and Mexico. With as many as six matches scheduled daily, the competition will culminate in the final on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Infantino compared organizing the World Cup to staging three Super Bowls a day for a month, calling it a “dizzying security and logistical challenge” for the host governments.
Trump Showcases Trophy at White House
Following the announcement, Infantino presented Trump with a personalized game ball and unveiled the trophy for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, which will serve as a prelude to the national team tournament.
Trump later displayed the trophy at a White House cryptocurrency summit, remarking that the U.S. remains a key market for soccer’s growth.
The World Cup is one of two major sporting events the U.S. will host in the coming years. In 2028, the Summer Olympics will take place in California, marking the country’s first Olympics since Salt Lake City hosted the Winter Games in 2002.
