President Donald Trump suggested the U.S. should host future FIFA World Cups alone or with China, excluding Mexico and Canada [1, 2].
The proposal highlights a potential shift in North American sporting diplomacy. While the 2026 tournament is a joint venture between three nations, Trump's comments suggest a preference for a more centralized or different international partnership for future events.
During a reception at Trump Tower in New York City on Friday, July 17, 2024, Trump spoke with FIFA President Gianni Infantino [1]. Both men praised the 2026 World Cup [1] as a success, with more than half of the tournament matches already played [3].
Trump mentioned the possibility of the U.S. seeking to be the sole host for the 2038 World Cup [2]. He said the U.S. could host the event alone or, in a joking manner, together with China [1].
Trump said the arrangement would allow for a short and pleasant flight between matches [1]. This logistical convenience was the primary reason cited for moving away from the current tri-nation hosting model.
In Spanish, Trump said, "Así tendrás un corto y agradable vuelo entre partidos" [1].
The discussion took place amid the ongoing execution of the 2026 World Cup [1], which serves as the current benchmark for the scale of the tournament's infrastructure and organization.
“the U.S. should host future FIFA World Cups alone or with China”
This suggestion marks a departure from the regional cooperation model established for the 2026 World Cup. By proposing a sole bid for 2038 or a partnership with China, the administration signals a preference for logistical simplicity and strategic global alignment over the existing North American partnership with Mexico and Canada.
