President Trump appoints Andrew Giuliani to lead the 2026 FIFA World Cup Task Force, igniting debates over qualifications and nepotism.
At a Glance
- Andrew Giuliani named Executive Director of 2026 FIFA World Cup Task Force
- Task force to coordinate U.S. efforts for the 2026 tournament co-hosted with Canada and Mexico
- Carlos Cordeiro appointed as Senior Advisor to the task force
- Trump emphasizes goal of hosting the “biggest, safest, and most extraordinary” World Cup
- Event expected to generate significant economic impact across U.S. host cities
Trump Appoints Andrew Giuliani to Lead World Cup Task Force
President Donald Trump has appointed Andrew Giuliani, son of former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani, as Executive Director of the President’s Task Force on the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The announcement was made during the task force’s inaugural meeting at the White House, where Trump expressed confidence in Giuliani’s capabilities, citing his prior experience as a special assistant to the President and his role in facilitating athlete travel during the U.S. reopening in 2020.
Watch President Trump’s announcement on Andrew Giuliani’s appointment to the World Cup Task Force.
The task force, established by Executive Order in March 2025, is responsible for coordinating federal efforts to support the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The tournament is set to take place from June 11 to July 19, 2026, with matches in 12 U.S. cities, including Miami, Boston, and Seattle. The final is scheduled to be held at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Carlos Cordeiro Joins as Senior Advisor
In addition to Giuliani’s appointment, Trump announced that Carlos Cordeiro, former President of the U.S. Soccer Federation and a Senior Advisor to FIFA, will serve as Senior Advisor to the task force. Cordeiro played a pivotal role in securing the U.S. as a host nation for the 2026 tournament and is expected to work closely with Giuliani to ensure the event’s success”
Trump emphasized the importance of the task force’s mission, stating, “Together, we will ensure that the 2026 World Cup will be the best-run soccer tournament the world has ever seen.”
Economic Impact and Preparations
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is anticipated to draw approximately 450,000 international visitors to the United States, with an estimated economic impact of up to $480 million per host city. The influx of tourists is expected to benefit local businesses and infrastructure development across the participating cities.
Vice President JD Vance, serving as Vice Chair of the task force, highlighted the administration’s commitment to showcasing American hospitality while maintaining strict immigration policies. He stated, “We want them to come, we want them to celebrate, we want them to watch the game. But when the time is up, they’ll have to go home.”
Looking Ahead
As preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup intensify, the task force, under Giuliani’s leadership, faces the challenge of coordinating a massive international event across three countries. With the support of experienced advisors like Cordeiro and the backing of the Trump administration, the United States aims to deliver a memorable and successful tournament that highlights its organizational capabilities and hospitality on the world stage.
