Trump spoke about his mission to make the 2026 World Cup "unprecedentedly successful"

On November 17, US President Donald Trump, commenting on the preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, spoke about his instructions from the White House administration to make this event "an unprecedented success."

"I have instructed my administration to do everything possible to make the 2026 World Cup an unprecedented success. I think he's going to be the greatest. And we are already setting records for ticket sales. <...> For those who are going to join us at the World Cup, I strongly recommend applying (for a visa. — Ed.) right now," he said at a meeting of the working group, which was held in the Oval Office of the White House.

The American leader noted that a team led by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and representatives of the Department of Homeland Security of his state had organized a thorough screening process for fans, after which they would be allowed unhindered entry into the United States. Trump stressed that previously, before his re-election as president, obtaining a tourist visa often took about a year, and now the waiting time for a visa is 60 days or less. According to him, for residents of 80% of the world's countries, this process now takes only two months.

Rubio, who also spoke at the meeting, added that despite this, it is not worth waiting for the last moment to apply for a visa — the ticket cannot guarantee it. The acquired right to attend a match makes it possible to receive an appointment for an interview on an expedited basis. At the same time, as he specified, checks of fans will be the same as for all other tourists.

The Athletic portal learned on October 2 that the cost of the most expensive ticket for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is $6,370 (516.7 thousand rubles). The text stated that tickets for the matches would be divided into four price categories: for the first of them, the cost would be $6,730, for the second — $4,210, for the third — $2,790 and for the fourth — $2,030.

The press service of the International Football Federation (FIFA) announced on September 25 that the mascots of the 2026 World Cup will be Maple the moose, jaguar Zayu and eagle Klatch, full of "joy, energy and spirit of unity," these animals, as explained, represent the host countries — Canada, Mexico and the USA, respectively.

All important news is on the Izvestia channel in the MAX messenger.