Trump Establishes White House Task Force for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Appoints Vance as Deputy
The president has issued an executive order that establishes the White House Task Force for the FIFA World Cup 2026, with himself appointed as the primary overseer.
President Donald Trump has enacted an executive order to create the White House Task Force on the FIFA World Cup 2026, which is set to be one of the largest sporting events ever and will be co-hosted by the United States next summer.
“We’re going to be forming a very significant task force for the FIFA World Cup of 2026, which, as you know, is a major event. I think it’s going to be the biggest event,” Trump remarked to reporters in the Oval Office, standing alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
“Everyone recognizes this man to my right, he’s basically the king of soccer,” Trump added, referring to Infantino. “He was instrumental in bringing this tournament to us, and we’re going to do a tremendous job in welcoming you home.”
The tournament, featuring 48 teams, will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The opening match is slated for June 11, 2026, at Mexico City’s famed Estadio Azteca, followed by the U.S. team’s first match the following day in Southern California.
“Moreover, we will bring joy and happiness to the entire world,” the FIFA president stated.
When asked about potential tariffs on Canada and Mexico affecting the event, Trump replied, “It makes it much more exciting.”
Trump indicated his intention to attend several matches in person: “I would like to go, certainly more than once. We’ll be making the rounds.”
The White House task force is set to meet regularly to evaluate progress, tackle emerging challenges, and ensure that agencies are aligned with their goals. Trump has the authority to appoint any member to lead these meetings.
The tournament will span 16 cities, featuring 48 teams and a total of 104 matches.
In the United States, games will take place in Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Houston, Dallas, Kansas City, Atlanta, Miami, Boston, Philadelphia, and East Rutherford, New Jersey.