Senator JD Vance appeared to issue a warning that could discourage international tourists from visiting the U.S. during the 2026 World Cup.
JD Vance, the Vice President, has a message for people planning to visit the U.S. for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The U.S., Canada, and Mexico will host the event. Vance’s new role as vice chair follows an incident where he almost broke a football trophy at the White House.
JD Vance issues cautionary message to visitors planning to attend 2026 World Cup in US
Vance joked about his past mistake, saying he appreciated the chance to be involved with the World Cup.
He welcomed visitors from around the world to enjoy the games.
However, he added a warning: visitors must go home when the event is over.
If they do not, they will have to deal with Homeland Security Secretary Noem.
Vance said, “I’m proud to be the vice chair of this for a couple of reasons.
First of all, the last time the president had me round the national or international sports trophy was the College Football Playoff National Championship, and I almost broke it, and so I appreciate the president giving me a second chance here.
“But of course, everybody is welcome to come and see this incredible event. I know we’ll have visitors probably from close to 100 countries.
“We want them to come. We want them to celebrate. And we want them to watch the game.”
“But, when the time is up, they’ll have to go home, otherwise they’ll have to talk to secretary Noem.”
Noem said that over two million people are expected to visit the U.S. for the World Cup.
Her department, along with the FBI and State Department, will work to ensure everything runs well.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy agreed, saying that people should not stay longer than their visas allow.
“This is a short-term push of people coming in to see soccer matches, and then they’ll go home […] But don’t overstay your visa.”
Trump sparks debate with his immigration policies
These comments came after President Trump took a tough stance on immigration.
He has signed orders to crack down on immigrants and increase deportations.
Over 250 people accused of crimes have been sent to a prison in El Salvador called CECOT, which some call the “world’s worst prison.”
Deportation error raises serious questions now.
One man, Kilmar Armando Ábrego García, was sent to the CECOT prison from Maryland.
The Trump administration later said his deportation was a mistake.
Despite this, and a Supreme Court ruling that García should be helped to return, he is still in El Salvador.
Trump has said he could ask El Salvador to send García back, but it has not happened yet.