The FIFA World Cup in 2026 is set to be like no other.
Three countries – the USA, Canada and Mexico – are joining forces to deliver a month-long celebration of football across North America. This will be the first time the tournament is co-hosted by three nations and is intended to be a symbolic moment for cross-border unity.
However, with political tension creeping in, that sense of togetherness is starting to unravel.
President Donald Trump has re-emerged on the world stage and, in true Trump fashion, he has made an immediate impact. His latest move involves a sweeping 25% tariff on Canadian and Mexican imports. It is a policy that has already sparked friction both economically and diplomatically, just as the three co-hosts prepare for football’s biggest stage.
His take? “It’ll make the World Cup more exciting.”
For fans, businesses and organisers, it’s not quite that simple.
What’s Happening?
The United 2026 tournament was pitched as a collaborative effort across borders, designed to symbolise shared infrastructure, culture and celebration.
Trump’s new tariffs on neighbouring co-hosts have shaken that vision. Canada and Mexico have already promised retaliation. Political tensions are on the rise, and questions are being asked about how smoothly the tournament can run under such conditions.
The bigger concern is that these issues could start to affect real people – fans planning trips, companies shipping products, and businesses investing heavily in the World Cup economy.
For Fans: Travel and Costs Are Shifting
If you are a football fan planning to travel to North America, one of the first things to check is the exchange rate.
As of 7 April 2025:
- £1 = 1.83 Canadian dollars
- £1 = 26.8 Mexican pesos
- £1 = 1.29 US dollars
This means travelling to Canada or Mexico may offer better value for money. Food, hotels and transport may all feel more affordable.
However, the majority of matches – including the final – are taking place in the USA, where the US dollar remains strong and prices are significantly higher. As inflation continues and cross-border friction escalates, fans heading to the United States may feel the impact on their wallets more than expected.
For Canadian and Mexican fans, the situation is even more challenging. A weaker domestic currency against the US dollar means everything from match tickets to meals will cost more. Add the potential for visa restrictions or tighter border policies, and the “united” experience could quickly start to feel divided.
For Sponsors and Brands: Strategy Is Key
The World Cup is not just about football. It is a major commercial opportunity. Brands invest millions into advertising, logistics, merchandise and hospitality.
Tariffs on imports and increased political tension between co-host nations may create several complications:
Shipping goods between countries could become more expensive
- Cross-border collaboration may slow down
- Currency volatility could impact marketing budgets and revenue forecasts
If your business is planning activations across the USA, Canada and Mexico, or manufacturing World Cup-related merchandise overseas, your costs may already be climbing. If political instability continues, the situation could become even more expensive and unpredictable.
What We’re Telling Our Clients
At Currencies 4 You, we are already working with businesses and individuals preparing for the tournament. Our clients include sports agencies, travel groups, sponsors and international service providers.
Here is what we are recommending:
Fix your exchange rate now. Using a forward contract allows you to lock in today’s rate for a future payment. This protects you against market fluctuations.
Avoid unnecessary bank fees. Many banks apply hidden costs that you never see. Our transfers are transparent, fast and fee-free.
Get tailored, expert advice. We match each client with a dedicated currency specialist who understands their industry and objectives.
If you are planning to attend the World Cup, fund international projects or operate across borders, now is the time to put your FX strategy in place.
Final Whistle
The World Cup is meant to bring people together. Unfortunately, politics is threatening to drive people apart.
From increased travel expenses to more complex sponsorship execution, the risks are clear. If you are connected to the tournament in any way – as a fan, business or rights holder – you will need to plan more strategically than ever before.
There is no doubt that 2026 will be a historic tournament. But the true winners may be the ones who prepared off the pitch, not just on it.
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I’m Baljit Rihal, Global Head of Sports at Currencies 4 You. I help people in sport and business protect their money when moving it across borders. Follow for useful insights on FX and the global sports business — and feel free to reach out if you would like to chat.
Disclaimer: Exchange rates fluctuate due to market conditions, and the figures used in this article are illustrative examples based on market trends as of today. Savings will vary depending on transaction size, timing, and market conditions. Always consult a financial expert before making large international transactions.