Trump Appoints Andrew Giuliani to World Cup Task Force Amid Father’s Legal Battles
Former President Donald Trump has tapped Andrew Giuliani, son of his close ally Rudy Giuliani, as the executive director of the presidential task force dedicated to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, an event poised to draw global attention and significant economic impact to the United States. The appointment comes as the U.S. gears up to co-host the prestigious international soccer tournament with Canada and Mexico.
Trump made the announcement during a task force meeting held at the White House on May 6, attended by FIFA President Gianni Infantino. In his remarks, Trump highlighted Andrew Giuliani’s personal attributes, emphasizing his competitive spirit and golfing prowess.
"I’ve known him for a long time," Trump stated. "He’s a highly competitive golfer – which I mean, really good – and he’s also a highly competitive person."
Andrew Giuliani’s professional background includes a stint as a White House aide during Trump’s presidency. He previously ran for New York governor in the 2022 Republican primary but was defeated by Lee Zeldin, who subsequently lost to incumbent Governor Kathy Hochul in the general election.
The appointment of Andrew Giuliani to the World Cup task force occurs against the backdrop of legal challenges faced by his father, Rudy Giuliani. The former New York City mayor, a prominent figure in Trump’s inner circle, has been indicted in both Georgia and Arizona for his alleged involvement in efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election. Rudy Giuliani has pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The World Cup task force, established by an executive order signed on March 7, is chaired by Trump and includes Vice President JD Vance as the vice chair. The task force comprises members of Trump’s cabinet and is responsible for assisting in the planning, organization, and execution of events related to the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
The United States previously hosted the World Cup in 1994. The 2026 World Cup will feature 48 national teams competing in 78 matches across 11 host cities in the U.S. In total, the tournament will encompass 104 matches held across North America, including games in Canada and Mexico.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino underscored the magnitude of the event, emphasizing its potential impact. "One hundred and four games, Mr. President. One hundred and four Super Bowls in one month," Infantino remarked to Trump. "We’ll have 6 billion viewers. The final alone will attract between two and three billion viewers. This is 15 times more than the Super Bowl."
The inaugural 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, featuring 32 soccer clubs from around the world competing in 63 matches, is set to commence on June 14 in Miami. Ten additional U.S. cities will host matches, with the finals scheduled for July 19 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
Trump emphasized the significance of the upcoming events, highlighting the opportunity to showcase the United States on a global stage. "These events will attract millions of passionate fans around the world, including my son," Trump said, referring to his 19-year-old son, Barron Trump. "This will be a once in a lifetime opportunity to showcase the beauty and the greatness of America, and we can’t wait to welcome soccer fans from all over the globe."
The 2026 World Cup and the 2025 Club World Cup are expected to generate substantial economic benefits for the United States. FIFA estimates that the tournaments could bring $47 billion in economic impact to the country. The events are anticipated to create numerous jobs, boost tourism, and stimulate economic activity in host cities.
The appointment of Andrew Giuliani to the World Cup task force has drawn attention due to his prior experience as a White House aide and his unsuccessful bid for New York governor. His selection has also been viewed in light of his father’s legal challenges and his close association with former President Trump.
As the United States prepares to co-host the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the task force led by Trump and Andrew Giuliani will play a critical role in coordinating the complex logistics and ensuring the successful execution of the event. The tournament is expected to be a major sporting and cultural event, attracting millions of visitors and generating significant economic benefits for the host countries.
