Andrew Giuliani Appointed Executive Director of 2026 FIFA World Cup Task Force
Andrew Giuliani, son of former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani, has been appointed as the executive director of the White House task force dedicated to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The announcement was made by former President Donald Trump via a TruthSocial post following the inaugural official meeting of the task force. The meeting was attended by cabinet members and FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
"I am proud to announce the appointment of Andrew Giuliani as the Executive Director of the President’s Task Force on the 2026 FIFA World Cup," Trump stated in his announcement. He further highlighted Giuliani’s prior experience, noting, "During my First Term, Andrew served as a Special Assistant to the President and Associate Director of the Office of Public Liaison, playing a key role in creating the system that enabled athletes from around the World to re-enter the United States during the Reopening of America in 2020."
The task force, established in March through an executive order signed by Trump, is geared towards coordinating efforts for the massive soccer tournament set to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Trump will serve as the chair of the task force, with Vice President JD Vance acting as the vice chair.
In his role as executive director, Andrew Giuliani will be responsible for the management and oversight of the task force’s daily operations. This includes coordinating between various governmental agencies, working with FIFA officials, and ensuring that all aspects of the preparations for the World Cup are progressing smoothly.
Speaking to the press after the task force meeting, Trump praised Giuliani, as well as his father. He referred to Rudy Giuliani as "the greatest mayor in New York’s history." "He’s going to be great. I’ve known him for a long time. He’s a highly competitive golfer, really good. He’s also a highly competitive person, and he loves what we’re doing. I want to congratulate you and your family and your father, your great father who is the greatest mayor in the history of New York," Trump said. He jokingly added, "It’s a big post. You better do well, Andrew."
Alongside Giuliani’s appointment, Trump also announced that Carlos Cordeiro, a FIFA senior advisor, would be joining the task force as a senior advisor. Cordeiro’s extensive experience with FIFA and international soccer governance is expected to be a valuable asset to the task force.
"I know Andrew and Carlos will work tirelessly to make the 2026 FIFA World Cup an unprecedented success," Trump stated.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is anticipated to be one of the largest international sporting events ever held. The host cities across North America are preparing to welcome an estimated half a million visitors, with a projected economic impact of up to $480 million. This influx of visitors and economic activity is expected to significantly benefit the tourism, hospitality, and retail industries.
The tournament, which begins in June 2026, marks the first time in over two decades that the World Cup will be hosted by multiple countries. While games will be held in Canada and Mexico, the majority of the matches will take place in the United States. Eleven U.S. cities have been selected to host games: Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Houston, Dallas, Kansas City, Atlanta, Miami, Boston, Philadelphia, and East Rutherford, New Jersey. Each of these cities is expected to reap substantial economic benefits from hosting World Cup matches.
The selection of Andrew Giuliani as executive director of the task force has drawn attention due to his previous role in the Trump administration and his family’s close ties to the former president. His background in public liaison and experience navigating international travel regulations could prove beneficial in managing the complex logistics involved in hosting the World Cup across three countries. The appointment of Carlos Cordeiro as senior advisor underscores the importance of collaboration between the U.S. government and FIFA in ensuring the success of the tournament.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup represents a significant opportunity for the United States, Canada, and Mexico to showcase their sporting infrastructure, cultural diversity, and economic prowess on a global stage. The task force, under the leadership of Trump, Vance, Giuliani, and Cordeiro, will play a crucial role in coordinating efforts to ensure that the tournament is a memorable and successful event for both participants and spectators. The potential economic benefits for the host cities and the overall positive impact on the North American soccer landscape make the 2026 FIFA World Cup a highly anticipated event with significant implications for the region.
The collaborative effort between governmental bodies, FIFA, and local communities is paramount to the tournament’s triumph. The task force’s ability to effectively manage logistics, address security concerns, and promote the event will be essential in maximizing its positive impact. The selection of host cities reflects the diverse geography and vibrant soccer culture across North America, and the tournament promises to be a celebration of sport and international cooperation. As preparations continue, the focus will be on ensuring that the 2026 FIFA World Cup leaves a lasting legacy for the host countries and the global soccer community.
