The 2026 FIFA Men's World Cup is underway, featuring 48 countries' teams in a soccer tournament co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
This global event provides an opportunity for countries to gain attention, shape their reputation, and build influence. However, the joint U.S.-Mexican-Canadian bid has been complicated by deteriorating relations since its announcement in 2017.
The World Cup also coincides with the review of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) on July 1, which may further impact the diplomatic interests of the host countries.
