The United States put on a spectacular show for the 2026 FIFA Men's World Cup, co-hosted with Canada and Mexico, drawing millions of fans worldwide. But President Donald Trump's push for an encore has hit a major roadblock.
Trump, 80, made a direct appeal to FIFA President Gianni Infantino before the final between Spain and Argentina in New Jersey, urging the organization to bring the tournament back to American soil soon. "Based on the numbers, we will be requesting it immediately," Trump told FOX Sports' Jenny Taft. "We have to do this again, and we have to do it while I'm around. You hear that Gianni?"
However, former England international Shaun Wright-Phillips has poured cold water on that idea, stating that 2038 is "way too soon" for the US to host again. "It's for the world, not just for America, so there are other countries and places it needs to be before it comes back there," Wright-Phillips told Jackpot City Casino. He also criticized the frequent water breaks during the tournament, saying, "I've had enough of the water breaks, to be totally honest!"
The US, along with Mauricio Pochettino leading the USMNT, had a wildly successful 2026 World Cup, with record attendance and global viewership. But the global soccer community is pushing back against a quick return. Europe is already locked in for 2030, and Saudi Arabia is set to host in 2034, leaving 2038 as the next available slot.
Despite the criticism, the US is likely to make a strong bid for 2038. The tournament's massive economic impact and the country's top-notch infrastructure make it a compelling candidate. However, Wright-Phillips' comments reflect a growing sentiment that the World Cup should rotate more broadly, giving other nations a chance to shine.
Trump's plea also comes amid other controversies, including a TV anchor under fire for accepting World Cup tickets and Melania Trump's $3,000 outfit sparking outrage. These distractions may not help the US bid.
FIFA has not yet commented on Trump's request, but the organization typically avoids rushing back to the same host nation. The US will need to overcome both logistical hurdles and global opposition if it wants to secure the 2038 World Cup.
For now, the message from the soccer world is clear: pump the brakes. The US may have to wait longer than Trump hopes for another chance to host the world's biggest sporting event.
