By US President Donald Trump states that the political tensions between the United States and its 2026 World Cup co-hosts, Canada and Mexico, will benefit the tournament. This dynamic will enhance interest. He believes this. The dynamic will enhance interest. He believes the economic tensions will also positively impact the event.
Trump has imposed tariffs – taxes charged on goods imported from other countries – on the United States’ two neighbours.
Trump was asked how he saw the World Cup playing out. This question was in light of the current trade situation between the three nations. He said: “I think it’s going to make it more exciting.
“Tension’s a good thing, I think it makes it much more exciting.”
At the start of the week, Trump confirmed that he was moving forward with 25% tariffs. These tariffs affect goods imported from Mexico and Canada.
In the days that followed, the Trump administration announced that it would be temporarily sparing carmakers from the import levies.
The next day, the president signed an executive order that placed a number of other exemptions on various goods.
Trump was speaking alongside FIFA president Gianni Infantino. This took place at the signing of an executive order. The order will establish a taskforce to oversee preparations for the tournament.
Trump will chair the task force, which will “co-ordinate with federal agencies in planning, organising and executing” the tournament.
Forty-eight teams will compete in the expanded World Cup in 2026.
Eleven of the 16 host cities are in the United States. Toronto and Vancouver in Canada are also set to stage matches. Guadalajara, Mexico City, and Monterrey in Mexico will host as well.
Azteca Stadium in Mexico City will host the opening match on 11 June. The final will be played at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on 19 July.
The United States will also host the 2025 Club World Cup in June and July.
