US President Donald Trump has signed an Executive Order establishing a White House Task Force to oversee preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2026, positioning himself as its Chair.
The task force, comprising members of Trump’s Cabinet and key government agencies, will coordinate efforts to plan, organise and execute both the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup and the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the latter being co-hosted by Canada and Mexico.
Vice President JD Vance will serve as Vice Chair, with an Executive Director managing daily operations.
The tournament will be held in 16 North American cities, 11 of them in the US.
The World Cup is expected to bring an estimated 450 000 visitors to each host city and generate a nett economic impact of up to US$480m (R8,7bn).
The US Travel Association raised concerns about the US’s readiness to cope with the demands on its air travel system ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as reported by Travel News.
However, the association has now applauded the task force, saying it would ensure a seamless and secure experience for the potential eight million visitors that could come to the US for the upcoming World Cups.
