Trump's Second Term: A Sporting Landscape Between the 2026 World Cup and 2028 Olympics

Wednesday 22 January 2025 - 11:36

In 2026 and 2028, two major sporting events will unfold in the United States: the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. These events are set against the backdrop of Donald Trump's second presidential term, which will shape both the diplomatic and domestic aspects of their execution.

The 2026 World Cup, co-hosted with Canada and Mexico, will be the first to feature 48 teams and a broadened format. However, the political tensions between these three countries—exacerbated by Trump's return to office—pose challenges for cooperation. His provocative rhetoric regarding issues like economic annexation of Canada and militarization of the southern border has already strained relations, raising concerns over the logistical coordination for the tournament, particularly for matches in Mexico and Canada. Trump's "America First" policy is evident in the unequal distribution of host cities, with the U.S. receiving the lion's share. While this strategy could solidify Trump's political standing in key states, it also risks intensifying nationalistic tensions.

The Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, returning to the city after its 1984 edition, faces its own set of challenges. California’s ongoing environmental crises, including catastrophic wildfires fueled by climate change, threaten to disrupt both infrastructure development and the overall viability of the games. Trump's administration has downplayed these concerns, further complicating recovery efforts and delaying infrastructure projects. The risk of "ghost stadiums" also looms, as seen with past Olympic venues. Meanwhile, Trump's climate skepticism clashes with the Olympic Committee's sustainability goals, undermining efforts to reduce the carbon footprint of the games.

Economically, both events could deepen disparities between the U.S. and its co-hosts. While American cities stand to benefit from tourism and investments, Canada and Mexico's contributions may be limited due to the uneven allocation of games. Additionally, California may face exacerbated social inequalities if the Olympic profits do not address the region's economic divides.

These events, while promoting unity through sport, will also highlight the deep political and social divides within the United States, with the growing political polarization and contentious debates over immigration and climate policies. How these challenges are addressed will ultimately shape the success or failure of these global sporting spectacles and the lasting impact they will have on the U.S.'s international standing.