Former President Donald Trump has appointed Andrew Giuliani, son of ex-NYC Mayor Rudy Giuliani, to lead the administration`s task force focused on the upcoming World Cup. The White House also announced that former U.S. Soccer president Carlos Cordeiro would serve as a special advisor to the group.
During Trump`s initial presidential term, Giuliani held roles including special assistant to the president and associate director of the Office of Public Liaison. Cordeiro was the president of U.S. Soccer in April 2017 when FIFA selected the joint bid from the United States, Canada, and Mexico to host the 2026 World Cup. Although Cordeiro resigned from U.S. Soccer in 2020 during the dispute over equal pay with the women`s national team, he has held a position as a senior advisor at FIFA since 2021.
The formation of this task force, which Trump intends to chair, was initially revealed in an executive order issued in March. Vice President J.D. Vance is designated as the vice chair, and the committee includes various members from Trump`s cabinet.
Trump stated during a White House task force meeting on Tuesday that the group`s objective is to “help plan the biggest, safest and most extraordinary soccer tournament in history.” FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who was also in attendance, estimated that roughly 10 million people would travel to the U.S. for the event, which will feature 48 participating teams for the first time.
At the meeting, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem indicated plans to efficiently manage attendees` “documentation and travel documents” to ensure a smooth process. However, other administration officials voiced caution regarding visitors potentially overstaying their visas.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy advised prospective attendees, saying, “If you`re coming to see some soccer … go on a road trip. See America.” He added a firm warning:
Don`t overstay your visa. Don`t stay too long.
