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United States capable of hosting 64-team World Cup and may bid for 2038 event, says 2026 Task Force head
Rohan Mehta | June 26, 2026 10:21 PM CST

The United States has the necessary infrastructure and expertise to stage an expanded 64-team FIFA World Cup and could emerge as a leading candidate to host the 2038 edition, according to the head of the American task force overseeing the 2026 tournament.

Currently, the US is co-hosting the global football extravaganza with Canada and Mexico. With the 2030 World Cup already allocated to Europe, Africa, and South America, and Saudi Arabia set to represent Asia in 2034, the door could open for a return to North America a little over a decade later.

Andrew Giuliani, Executive Director of the White House Task Force on the World Cup, stated that although it is too early to make a definite decision on a future bid, he believes the United States is exceptionally well-positioned to host the tournament again.

Speaking to the Press Association, Giuliani said: "This is something I’ve discussed with President Trump and several cabinet secretaries. I genuinely believe there’s no country better suited to host a World Cup than the United States, and I think social media reflects that sentiment."

He continued: "We’re seeing it with the fans who may be visiting the US for the first time, or for the first time in many years, realizing that America is truly welcoming and that we have such an outstanding infrastructure."

Giuliani also emphasised the financial benefits, noting: "We already have the stadiums built. For the United States, compared to other host nations that spend tens of billions of dollars, our costs are just a few billion. Even if the World Cup expands to 64 teams, I believe the United States can easily manage it."

He added a personal touch by recalling his own memories of attending matches during the 1994 World Cup, expressing his wish to see the tournament return to American soil.

Despite early concerns raised by human rights organisations regarding the Trump administration’s immigration policies and how they might affect visiting fans, the general atmosphere across host cities has remained largely positive.

Giuliani expressed satisfaction with how the tournament has unfolded so far, saying: "It’s wonderful to witness the world’s affection for the United States of America as we celebrate our 250th birthday. It’s been deeply gratifying."

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has confirmed that Donald Trump is expected to attend the World Cup final in New Jersey on 19 July. Although he has not yet attended any matches, Giuliani hinted that his appearance might be quite dramatic.

"One thing I can say about my boss, the 47th president – I’ve known him for nearly 30 years – he enjoys suspense," Giuliani remarked. "He likes to keep everyone on the edge of their seats. So, I’d just tell people to tune in; I’m sure there will be some surprises."


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