The United States is entertaining the possibility of placing a formal bid to host the men’s 2038 FIFA World Cup, indicating the nation is already eyeing a return to the global stage before the 2026 tournament has even concluded.
Andrew Giuliani, executive director of the White House’s World Cup task force, confirmed on Friday that the US is considering the bid, particularly in light of FIFA’s discussions to expand the tournament format from 48 to 64 teams as early as 2030.
“When you think that this World Cup may at some point expand out to 64 teams, I think the United States can handle it,” Giuliani stated. “Let me make sure we get through this World Cup on 19 July before we make our pitch for 2038 or other ones.”
The US is currently co-hosting the expanded 2026 edition alongside Canada and Mexico, staging 78 of the 104 matches. Should the nation bid for and secure the 2038 tournament, it would mark the third time it has hosted the men’s competition, having previously done so in 1994 and 2026.
Giuliani pointed to America’s existing infrastructure as a major economic advantage. “We have the stadiums built, so for the US, compared to other host nations, where it costs tens and tens of billions of dollars, you know, it cost us a couple of billion,” he said.
The White House official noted that he has discussed the prospect with President Donald Trump, who was recently photographed alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino holding a US-themed match ball. Giuliani argued that the current World Cup showcases America’s capability to host major global events, calling it “wonderful to see the world’s love affair with the United States of America.”
The interest in 2038 comes as the international football calendar is rapidly being filled. The 2030 tournament is set to be co-hosted by Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, with opening fixtures in Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay to mark the competition’s centenary. The 2034 edition has already been awarded to Saudi Arabia.
However, the 2026 tournament—and by extension, any future US bid—has not been without controversy. Over 120 rights groups recently issued a travel advisory cautioning fans, journalists, and players regarding the “Trump administration’s violent and abusive immigration crackdown.” Additionally, members of Iran’s backroom staff have been denied US entry visas, forcing the team to relocate their base to Tijuana, Mexico, with strict travel restrictions in place. Fans attending the current World Cup have also faced sharp increases in travel and accommodation costs.
Despite these challenges, Giuliani remains optimistic. He emphasized the US’s “incredible infrastructure” and the nation’s welcoming spirit, though he stressed that the current priority remains successfully delivering the 2026 event before officially launching a campaign for the 2038 cycle.
