The Impact of Trump's Policies on U.S. Tourism Ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, expectations for a surge in tourism to the United States are tempered by a significant downturn in international visitor numbers. In 2025, the U.S. experienced a 5.4% decline in foreign tourist arrivals, contrasting sharply with a global increase of 4% in international travel. Notably, Canadian visits plummeted by nearly 30%, impacting border states reliant on cross-border tourism. The U.S. Travel Association highlights that Canadian visitors contributed approximately 20.4 million visits and $20.5 billion in spending in 2024, supporting around 140,000 American jobs.

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The downturn in U.S. tourism is attributed to several factors linked to the policies of former President Donald Trump. Tariff increases, the highest since 1935, and a tough immigration stance have fostered a negative perception of the U.S. among potential travelers. Reports indicate that many foreigners feel unwelcome, with some leaders in Canada and Europe urging citizens to vacation domestically. Additionally, safety concerns have arisen, prompting countries like Germany to issue travel advisories regarding risks associated with visiting the U.S.

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The implications of this tourism decline are profound. Julia Simpson, president and CEO of the World Travel and Tourism Council, described the situation as a “wake-up call” for the U.S. government, warning that the country could lose approximately $30 billion in international tourism revenue in 2025. The share of global international travel to the U.S. has decreased from 8.4% in 1996 to an anticipated 4.8% in 2025, while other destinations like France and Mexico are expected to see increases in tourist arrivals.

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Despite the challenges, there is hope that the World Cup will boost tourism. However, Trump's foreign policy may undermine these expectations. New visa fees and social media screening for visitors could deter potential travelers. Calls for a boycott of the U.S. have emerged, notably from former FIFA President Sepp Blatter, who suggested fans avoid attending the World Cup in the U.S. Additionally, travel bans affecting countries like Senegal, Ivory Coast, Iran, and Haiti—each of which has qualified for the tournament—could further limit attendance.

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Tourism professionals express concern over the current trajectory of U.S. tourism, with many remaining silent on the immigration crackdown. The federal government’s budget cuts to Brand USA, the national tourism marketing organization, have exacerbated the situation, reducing efforts to promote the U.S. positively.

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While there are indications of increased bookings for flights and accommodations following the announcement of World Cup dates, the overall sentiment remains cautious. The potential for a boycott from European soccer leaders, although unlikely due to financial stakes, adds to the uncertainty surrounding the event.

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• “The world’s biggest travel and tourism economy is heading in the wrong direction,” — Julia Simpson, President and CEO, World Travel and Tourism Council

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• “While other nations are rolling out the welcome mat, the U.S. government is putting up the ‘closed’ sign.” — Julia Simpson, President and CEO, World Travel and Tourism Council

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• “It will take a long time and good strategies to repair the serious damage done to the nation’s image among travelers in the rest of the world.” — Frédéric Dimanche, Professor, Toronto Metropolitan University

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As the U.S. prepares for the World Cup, the ongoing effects of the "Trump slump" pose significant challenges to the tourism sector, raising questions about the country's ability to attract international visitors amidst evolving global perceptions.

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