President Donald Trump has appointed Andrew Giuliani, son of former New York mayor Rudy Giuliani, as the director of a presidential task force responsible for collaborating on preparations for the 2026 World Cup.
The task force, created by the president in March, aims to coordinate federal departments and agencies to assist in the organization and execution of the World Cup and a club tournament organized by FIFA this year. The 2026 World Cup, which will be a joint event between Canada, Mexico, and the United States, is expected to attract a large number of spectators, creating logistical and security challenges.
In a statement issued, Trump promised to facilitate travel and visa access for teams and fans, despite concerns expressed by some Democrats about the travel restrictions the president has implemented from various countries.
Andrew Giuliani, a former professional golfer and close Trump associate, distinguished himself in organizing visits from sports teams to the White House during Trump's first term. Additionally, he was appointed by the president as a member of the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Council.
During a meeting at the White House about the World Cup, it was announced that Carlos Cordeiro, former president of the U.S. Soccer Federation, will serve as the chief advisor of the panel. Cordeiro successfully led the U.S. bid for the tournament but resigned after criticism for questioning the women's national team in a legal dispute.
After reaching a settlement in a lawsuit regarding equal pay, the Federation committed to offering $24 million to the athletes and to paying the same amount to both the men's and women's teams in future competitions. On social media, Trump expressed confidence that Andrew and Carlos will work tirelessly to ensure the unprecedented success of the FIFA World Cup in 2026.
