Trump Advocates for US-Hosted World Cup Without Canada and Mexico, Proposes China as Co-Host

US President Donald Trump has reignited discussions around the hosting of future FIFA World Cups, advocating for the United States to host the tournament again without Canada and Mexico as co-hosts. During a recent meeting with FIFA President Gianni Infantino, Trump proposed that China could serve as the second host nation in the next edition of the tournament.

Market Implications of Hosting Shifts in FIFA World Cup

Trump’s remarks came during a press conference in New York on July 18, where he emphasized a change in the hosting alliance. "Next time, you should choose the US again. This time, we are ready to host the World Cup without Canada and Mexico. Previously, I was very generous and allowed them to join. Now, let's just pick ourselves and invite someone else next time," he stated.

FIFA President Infantino expressed support for the idea, suggesting a joint hosting between the US and China. Trump highlighted the logistical benefits, noting that "players will have short flights between games, which I think they will appreciate." This proposal signals a potential shift in the geographic and political landscape of global football, which could influence various market segments, including sports infrastructure investments, broadcasting rights, and sponsorships.

"Without you, this World Cup would not have been such an incredible success," Infantino remarked to Trump, underscoring the political significance attached to the US role in the 2026 World Cup.

Trump also praised the 2026 tournament, calling it "the most successful sporting event, perhaps in human history," and challenged the perception that the US is not a traditional football powerhouse, suggesting a growing domestic interest that may boost related equities and consumer markets.

Additionally, Trump commended FIFA’s decision to overturn the suspension of US team player Folarin Balogun, a move that had attracted widespread criticism globally. "You made an excellent, excellent, excellent decision," he said, underlining the potential for regulatory decisions to impact player valuations and related market activities.

Looking ahead, Trump is expected to attend the final match of the 2026 World Cup at the MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, on July 19, where Argentina will face Spain. Post-match, he will have the honor of presenting the championship trophy, marking a high-profile moment with potential market attention on event-driven sponsorships and media engagement.

Beyond 2026, the 2030 World Cup is set to be hosted by Morocco, Portugal, and Spain, with additional matches in Uruguay, Paraguay, and Argentina. The 2034 tournament will take place in Saudi Arabia. The next available hosting slot for which the US might bid is 2038.

This evolving hosting landscape underscores the interplay between geopolitical considerations and sports markets. Investors and market participants should monitor these developments, as shifts in hosting duties can influence capital flows into stadium construction projects, media rights deals, tourism, and broader consumer engagement sectors tied to soccer’s global expansion.