The World Cup’s Unlikely Victor: America’s Soft Power

As the United States prepares to host the 2028 Summer Olympics and 2034 Winter Games, it has invested heavily in its bid to showcase American culture on a global stage. But what’s remarkable about this year’s World Cup is how the tournament itself became a platform for America’s soft power.

The Trump administration faced numerous challenges in hosting the tournament, including navigating complex immigration policies and FIFA’s demands. However, despite these obstacles, soccer fans from around the world came together to celebrate American culture, from beer to ranch dressing.

Andrew Giuliani, executive director of the White House FIFA Task Force, highlighted the “incredible cultural moments” that transcended the athletic achievements on the field. Yet, beneath this surface-level enthusiasm lies a more complex story – one that reflects the Trump administration’s priorities and the tensions simmering beneath the surface.

President Trump’s phone call to FIFA chief Gianni Infantino, requesting a review of a referee call in Team USA’s match against Bosnia and Herzegovina, has been widely reported. This incident reveals the delicate dance between politics and sports, as evidenced by the reversal of the red card decision, which allowed Folarin Balogun to play.

This development raises questions about the use of video review and slow-motion replay. Moreover, it underscores the broader issue of the Trump administration’s commitment to hosting successful international events. With the 2028 Olympics and 2034 Winter Games on the horizon, there is an unmistakable sense that these events are not just about showcasing American athleticism – but also about promoting a particular brand of American exceptionalism.

The emphasis on “integrity” in officiating, as Giuliani put it, takes on a different hue when considering the administration’s stance on issues like transgender rights. The U.S. is widely expected to be awarded the 2031 Women’s World Cup, but Giuliani’s comments about ensuring that “women and only women will play” in that tournament are a disturbing sign of what this means for inclusivity in American athletics.

As the world watches the final match between Argentina and Spain, it’s worth considering the implications of America’s soft power. While Senator Andy Kim’s enthusiasm for the tournament is infectious, his comments about the logistics going “mostly smoothly” aside from some minor hiccups serve as a reminder that even with all the goodwill in the world, there’s always more work to be done.

The attendance of Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney at Trump’s request is a sign that soccer can indeed overcome geopolitical tensions – but it also serves as a potent reminder of the power dynamics at play. As the U.S. continues to invest in its bid to host major international events, it would do well to remember that soft power is not just about showcasing American culture – but also about promoting values like inclusivity and respect for human rights.

Ultimately, the real victor of this World Cup is not Team USA or any other country – but America’s capacity to bring people together in a shared experience. However, as we look ahead to future sporting events, it’s time for the U.S. to acknowledge that its soft power comes with responsibilities – and that true greatness lies not just in winning, but in showing respect for the world beyond its borders.