Trade Tensions Between Canada, Mexico Could Boost 2026 World Cup Drama, Trump Claims.
On Friday, March 7, U.S. President Donald Trump announced the formation of a task force to organize the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This move came despite concerns over ongoing trade tensions with Mexico and Canada, the countries co-hosting the event alongside the U.S. Trump, standing with FIFA President Gianni Infantino in the Oval Office, was asked about the potential impact of these disputes on the World Cup.
Trump’s response was unorthodox: “I think it’s going to make it more exciting,” he said. “Tension is a good thing… it makes everything much more exciting.”
He then signed an executive order to officially launch the 2026 World Cup Task Force, which he will personally lead. Trump referred to the event as “the largest sporting event in history,” emphasizing its global significance.
“We’re going to be establishing a task force, a very important task force — White House — and that’s on the FIFA World Cup of 2026, which, as you know, is a big event,” Trump added.
Gianni Infantino, speaking next, highlighted the economic impact of the tournament. He projected that the event would create around 200,000 jobs and generate a staggering $40 billion in economic benefits. “And beyond that, we will bring joy and happiness to the entire world, and that’s priceless,” Infantino said.
He expressed gratitude toward Trump for forming the task force, stressing the importance of ensuring that all visitors feel safe and welcome during the tournament. “That’s why it’s important that the government puts together this White House Task Force,” Infantino explained.
The 2026 World Cup will be the first to include 48 teams, a significant expansion of the tournament. Infantino likened it to hosting three NFL Super Bowls each day for an entire month. Trump, clearly impressed by the comparison, remarked, “That’s really amazing when you think of it. I’ve never heard it expressed like that.”
