FIFA World Cup 2026: Vance Issues Warning To International Visitors As US Prepares To Host

US Vice President JD Vance stirred debate Tuesday during the inaugural meeting of the White House task force on the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which the United States will co-host with Canada and Mexico. The meeting, led by President Donald Trump, comes just over a year before the world's biggest soccer tournament kicks off.

During the discussion, Vance issued a firm message to international visitors ahead of the tournament. While welcoming fans from over 100 countries, the VP emphasized they must respect visa limits and leave the country once the games conclude.

“Of course, everyone is welcome to come and see this wonderful event,” Vance said on Tuesday. “We want them to come, we want them to celebrate, we want them to watch the games. But when the time is up, we want them to go home—otherwise they will have to talk to Secretary Noem,” he added, referencing Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, who sat beside him.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy echoed the sentiment, encouraging tourism but warning visitors not to overstay their visas.

Also read: Carney Meets Trump At The White House: Here Are The 7 Biggest Takeaways

President Trump has appointed Andrew Giuliani, son of former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani, as executive director of the 2026 World Cup task force. Trump also named Carlos Cordeiro, a senior FIFA advisor, as a senior consultant to the team.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump celebrated the tournament as a major victory for the US and shared that his son Barron, a devoted soccer fan, regularly corrects him for calling the sport "soccer" instead of “football.” “He’s a little tall for soccer, but that’s okay,” Trump joked.

During Tuesday’s meeting, Trump praised Giuliani as both “a highly competitive golfer” and a dedicated leader. “It’s a big post—you better do well, Andrew,” he added with a laugh.

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