Statement from the GREAT USA Coalition on the Continued Partial Government Shutdown and Preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Washington, D.C. — The GREAT USA Coalition is concerned about the potential impacts of the ongoing partial federal government shutdown on preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which the United States will host alongside Canada and Mexico. With millions of visitors expected and the eyes of the world on our country, it is critical that federal, state, and local partners are able to operate at full capacity in the months ahead. The U.S. cannot have the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) partially shuttered due to policy disagreements around immigration enforcement.

Successfully hosting the World Cup will require seamless coordination across numerous federal agencies responsible for border operations, visa processing, aviation security, transportation, emergency preparedness, and international visitor services. Disruptions to these functions, even temporary ones, can slow planning and create unnecessary uncertainty for host cities, organizers, and international partners.

The United States has a strong track record of delivering major global sporting events, in large part because of the robust partnership between government and the private sector. Businesses, venue operators, hospitality providers, technology companies, and infrastructure partners are already investing significant time and resources to help ensure the tournament’s success.

The coalition urges policymakers to work constructively and quickly to restore full government operations and provide the certainty needed for effective planning. The increasingly long lines at TSA checkpoints across the country are an unfortunate outcome of the government’s inability to agree on DHS funding.

The 2026 World Cup represents a generational opportunity to showcase American hospitality, strengthen international ties, and deliver significant economic benefit to communities across the country. By working together, we can ensure the United States is fully prepared to welcome the world and deliver a safe, seamless, and memorable tournament.