The U.S. Travel Association has launched the America’s Sports and Travel Mega Event Coalition (ASTMEC) in anticipation of two marquee sporting events that will consume the country, beginning with the 2026 FIFA World Cup next summer.
Meanwhile, the organization praised the Trump administration for forming a White House Task Force on the 2028 Summer Olympics, which will take place in Los Angeles three years from now.
ASTMEC is a national alliance of sports, travel and business leaders that seeks to prepare the U.S. for a pair of successful host efforts in the years to come.
According to U.S. Travel, ASTMEC will work closely with the administration to “ensure the necessary policies, infrastructure and security systems are in place to support these and other mega events.”
Specifically, the alliance will partner with federal officials to modernize visa and entry systems, including a new Visa Task Force, upgrade airports and deploy next-generation security technology and ensure fast, safe travel for athletes, fans, sponsors and media.
The U.S. is projected to welcome more than 30 million international visitors for major sporting events over the next four years, generating a $100 billion economic impact nationwide.
Los Angeles downtown skyline. (Photo Credit: LA Tourism)
“The Trump administration’s launch of the White House Task Force on the 2028 Summer Olympics lays critical groundwork for a historic decade of global sports,” Geoff Freeman, President and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association, said in a statement. “This is another opportunity for the U.S. to demonstrate its leadership on the world stage.”
“Hosting these events will bring global attention and millions of visitors to our cities—but momentum isn’t enough,” he added. “Success demands strategy, unity and investment. We urge the White House Task Force to press Congress to scrap the misguided $250 junk fee that will deter legitimate visitors.”
“ASTMEC is ready to partner with federal and local leaders to deliver a secure, seamless experience and a legacy that lasts,” Freeman concluded.
In addition to the creation of White House Task Forces on the FIFA World Cup 2026 and 2028 Summer Olympics, specific federal action supported by U.S. Travel includes a $625 million federal investment in 2026 FIFA World Cup operations and a $1 billion commitment to the 2028 Olympic Games.
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