The World Cup 2038 US bid is gaining serious momentum, with President Donald Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino openly pushing for an early return of the tournament. After record-breaking ticket sales and hospitality revenue in the US, FIFA sees massive financial opportunity.
Why the US Wants the 2038 World Cup
Trump’s comments to Fox News before the World Cup final made it clear: “We have to do this again and we have to do it while I’m around.” The US appetite for major events and willingness to pay premium prices has turned heads. FIFA’s revenue projections for the current cycle jumped from $11 billion to $15 billion, driven largely by American ticket and hospitality sales exceeding $5 billion.
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Record Hospitality Revenue
For the first time, ticketing and hospitality revenue surpassed TV rights in value. A FIFA source confirmed that dynamic pricing and secondary market resale, deeply embedded in US culture, have exceeded expectations. This has made the US a highly profitable market for FIFA.
| Revenue Source | Amount | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Ticket & Hospitality Sales | $5B+ | Exceeded TV rights value |
| TV Rights (Fox Sports) | Undisclosed (no bidding) | Lost potential revenue |
| Total FIFA Revenue (current cycle) | $15B | Up from $11B projection |
How FIFA is Encouraging a US Bid
FIFA has been quietly but actively encouraging a US bid for some time. At a meeting at the Waldorf Astoria in New York, Infantino revealed the revenue growth to 211 member associations. A senior figure at a FIFA hospitality partner stated: “FIFA will want to get back here as quickly as possible.”
The Fox Sports TV Deal
In an extraordinary move, Fox Sports secured English-language US TV rights without a bidding process. This was a precaution after Qatar 2022 moved to winter, avoiding a clash with the NFL. However, it also left FIFA leaving “huge money on the table,” another reason the organization is desperate to return.
Key Takeaways
- US ticket and hospitality sales hit $5B, surpassing TV rights for the first time.
- FIFA’s revenue jumped from $11B to $15B due to US demand.
- Trump openly supports a 2038 US World Cup bid.
- Fox Sports obtained TV rights without competitive bidding, costing FIFA potential revenue.
- A 2038 return would capitalize on America’s dynamic pricing culture.
FAQ
Is a 2038 World Cup in the US likely?
Yes, many insiders believe it’s highly likely. FIFA is actively encouraging a bid, and Trump has publicly supported it. The US has proven it can generate massive revenue.
Why would FIFA want to return so soon?
FIFA wants to capitalize on the US market’s explosive demand. With ticket and hospitality sales exceeding $5B, returning quickly ensures they don’t leave further money on the table.
What role did Trump play in the US bid?
Trump used his influence to push the idea publicly, telling FIFA’s president Gianni Infantino that the US should host again while he’s still president. His comments sparked widespread speculation.
The World Cup 2038 US bid is no longer a distant possibility. With Trump and FIFA aligned, and record-breaking revenue numbers, the stage is set for an accelerated return. Keep an eye on official announcements as the bidding process unfolds.