What the 2026 FIFA World Cup reveals about American soft power

Key Points:

• Despite the Trump administration's xenophobic policies, the 2026 World Cup has sparked widespread admiration among international tourists who are charmed by American culture and everyday conveniences.
• Incidents such as the detention of an Iraqi player and the rejection of a Somali referee highlight the negative impact of restrictive US travel policies on participants from the Global South.
• American soft power, rooted in cultural exports, technological innovation, and educational institutions, remains influential globally, though it has been undermined by funding cuts and policy changes under Trump.
• Trump’s brand of soft power appeals to certain domestic and international groups but is polarizing, contrasting with unifying events like the World Cup that foster international goodwill.
• Grassroots hospitality and community support for immigrant teams during the World Cup demonstrate that America's welcoming spirit and soft power largely originate from society itself, beyond government influence.