In 2019, Canada, the USA, and Mexico were awarded the 2026 World Championship. For the first time, the final is spread across three nations.
Six years ago, the official stance was how palpable the unity was, politically and economically, between the host countries. A truth with modifications. Donald Trump was already wreaking havoc with his tariffs and wall on the border with Mexico.
But it was a gentle breeze compared to what awaited when Trump made a comeback in the White House last winter. Relations with Canada and Mexico have drastically deteriorated, especially with Canada. Trump is fueling the tariff and trade conflict by repeatedly stating that he would prefer to see Canada as the USA's 51st state.
What the Danes think about the Trump administration's aggressive claims on Greenland is well-known. Around the world, not least within the EU, opposition to Trump and the USA he leads is growing.
Raises Many Questions
Something that raises many questions ahead of the World Championship in about 15 months. Even in the USA. Will supporters come in the same numbers as usual? Will they want to come? Will they be let in? How will fan travel between host countries work when the USA has introduced stricter requirements and controls?
Alan Rothenberg is the former chairman of the USA's football association and was involved in hosting the men's 1994 and women's 1999 World Championships.
He relates that the finals in problematic nations like Russia and Qatar attracted around three million football fans from around the world.
A passionate football supporter will not be held back, says Rothenberg to AP.
He does not believe that any of the host nations will withdraw from the World Championship or that nations will boycott the finals.
More than anything, they will see it as an opportunity for, perhaps, a rapprochement rather than escalating tensions.
Exception During the World Championship?
Andrew Zimbalist, professor and expert on sports economics, also does not believe that Trump's politics will pose an obstacle.
Zimbalist's guess is that Trump will introduce a temporary exception regarding travel restrictions and other issues if the relationship between Canada and the USA deteriorates further.
Just as he makes exceptions all the time around his tariff policy, he will make an exception for a month or six weeks, says Zimbalist to AP.
Economics professor Victor Matheson believes that the International Football Association (Fifa) must also ensure that supporters can travel to the USA smoothly and move freely between host countries.
Fifa has not wanted to comment. It is no secret that chairman Gianni Infantino and President Trump have a good relationship. They have met several times.
And what does Trump say?
I think it will make the whole thing even more exciting. Tensions are a good thing, said the president recently about the relationship with Canada.
The championship will take place from June 11 to July 19, 2026.
For the first time, the World Championship will feature 48 teams, compared to 32 previously.
The number of matches will increase from 64 to 80.
It will also be the first time the final is hosted by three nations: Canada, the USA, and Mexico.
Venues:
Canada: Toronto, Vancouver.
USA: Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, New York/New Jersey, Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Seattle.
Mexico: Guadalajara, Mexico City, Monterrey.
The host nations are directly qualified for the World Championship.
Sweden will qualify for the World Championship in the autumn against Switzerland, Slovenia, and Kosovo. The group winner will advance to the World Championship.
Four additional European World Championship spots are at stake in the spring 2026 playoffs.
