US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that all fans from across the globe would be welcome at the 2026 World Cup despite concerns over his border crackdown affecting the tournament.
Trump, who has appointed himself chairman of the White House task force for the tournament, said visitors to the United States could expect a “seamless” experience.
The United States is co-hosting the 2026 World Cup with neighbouring Canada and Mexico.
“We can’t wait to welcome soccer fans from all over the globe,” Trump said at a White House briefing alongside Fifa president Gianni Infantino.
“Every part of the US government will be working to ensure that these events are safe and successful, and those travelling to America to watch the competition have a seamless experience during every part of their visit.”
Foreign traveller arrivals in the United States are expected to decline by 5.1 per cent in 2025, according to one recent study by Tourism Economics.
The World Tourism Forum Institute has said a mix of stringent US immigration policies and global political tensions could “significantly affect” international arrivals.
