Donald Trump Claims Tensions with Co-Hosts Will Make 2026 World Cup "More Exciting"
U.S. President Donald Trump believes that political and economic tensions between the United States and its 2026 World Cup co-hosts, Canada and Mexico, will enhance the tournament experience rather than detract from it.
"I think it's going to make it more exciting," Trump stated when asked about how the World Cup would unfold given the current trade situation between the three nations. "Tension's a good thing, I think it makes it much more exciting."
These comments came shortly after Trump confirmed the implementation of 25% tariffs on goods imported from Mexico and Canada. However, in the days following this announcement, the Trump administration issued temporary exemptions for carmakers from these import levies, followed by an executive order that placed additional exemptions on various other goods.
The president made these remarks while appearing alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino at the signing of an executive order establishing a taskforce to oversee preparations for the tournament. Trump will personally chair this task force, which will "co-ordinate with federal agencies in planning, organising and executing" the World Cup.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will feature an expanded format with 48 teams competing across three North American countries. The United States will host the majority of the matches, with 11 of the 16 host cities located within its borders. Canada's Toronto and Vancouver will also stage matches, as will Mexico's Guadalajara, Mexico City, and Monterrey.
The opening match is scheduled for June 11 at Mexico City's iconic Azteca Stadium, while the final will take place on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Additionally, the United States will host the 2025 Club World Cup in June and July, further cementing North America's prominent position in hosting major international soccer tournaments.
