Donald Trump faces a unique opportunity to make a difference in his second term as head of the US government. Throughout his career, he has been a leader who has used sports to strengthen his image and connect with the citizenry, but at this stage he has the opportunity to use his influence at international events to project a more inclusive version of the United States on a global (not just domestic) scale. As 2026 approaches, with the World Cup on his hands, and the hosting of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, Trump has the chance to align sport with a positive message that promotes unity and international respect, while turning his detractors around for some past statement.
To achieve this, Trump simply needs to consider slight adjustments to his discourse and highlight the values of sport as a vehicle for society-wide understanding. Football (soccer), in particular, has proven to be a unifying force globally, and Trump has the opportunity to use these major events as a platform to create a more inclusive environment, moving away from more polarizing messages. He will co-host the World Cup with Canada and Mexico, a country with which he has had disagreements in the past. This World Cup can serve to set a new tone of unity and engagement with its neighboring country.
CREATING AN ATMOSPHERE OF UNITY THROUGH SPORT
With the aforementioned 2026 World Cup – in addition to the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup – and LA28, the United States represents a golden opportunity to see the U.S. as a model of hospitality and respect, far from one with political tension. While host cities like Los Angeles and New York are known for their diversity and openness -in this election Kamala Harris won a large majority with over 60% of the vote in each- Trump could use this as an opportunity to smooth tensions and show that he is a welcoming host to all.
One way to achieve this shift would be to adjust his approach to issues of diversity and inclusion. Recognizing the importance of creating a safe environment for all participants, regardless of their origin, gender or beliefs, could improve global perception: he must have a strong commitment to human rights and the welfare of communities participating in the Games, which is in line with the international agenda promoted by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and FIFA.
Trump could incorporate more initiatives towards marginalized groups within the framework of these events. This would not only enhance inclusivity in sport, but could also redefine the narrative surrounding his administration, portraying him as a leader who promotes social justice in the sporting arena.
LEVERAGING VISIBILITY FOR USA INTERESTS
In addition to the image and reputation at stake, Trump has a great opportunity to use the upcoming major sporting events to promote U.S. interests on the global stage. It can generate a positive focus on the U.S. economy, creating opportunities for local businesses and for tourism and infrastructure-related industries. Building stadiums and hosting events in various cities will create thousands of jobs, which could be a central theme in his speech, aligning it with his goal of revitalizing the national economy.
The relationship between politics and sports is complex, but with the right approach, a ruler can use major events to create a positive impact, both at home and abroad. One of the main challenges for Trump will be adapting to a rapidly evolving international landscape. Climate change and sustainability concerns are increasingly relevant to global sporting events, and while Trump has been critical of climate change in the past, he may reconsider his stance on the issue, given the growing interest in reducing the carbon footprint of international sporting events, something the IOC is pursuing as demonstrated in a recent study it conducted.
Taking the opportunity to lead on sustainability issues, such as Los Angeles’ efforts to hold a car-free Olympics, would be a way to connect with a wider audience and present a Trump more open to the changes the world is experiencing.
INCREASING INTERNATIONAL CONFIDENCE IN THE USA
Trump also has the opportunity to improve international confidence in America’s ability to be a leader in sport and global values. By focusing on respect for human rights, equality and inclusion, the president-elect could demonstrate that US interests are aligned with global values.
The upcoming major sporting events offer an unprecedented platform to make a positive mark on history, not only as a president who promoted his country’s economy, but as a leader who used sport to bring people together from around the world, improve global society and be a role model and example for the entire planet.
