WASHINGTON —The U.S. Travel Association today announced the launch of the America’s Sports and Travel Mega Event Coalition (ASTMEC)—a national alliance of sports, travel and business leaders dedicated to helping the United States successfully host a once-in-a-generation slate of global sporting events.
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2028 Summer Olympics on the horizon, ASTMEC will work in close partnership with the administration to ensure the necessary policies, infrastructure and security systems are in place to support these and other mega events—expected to generate a $100 billion economic impact nationwide over the next four years.
The Trump Administration’s White House Task Force to the Summer Olympics of 2028 has laid the groundwork for an unprecedented decade of sports. The U.S. has another chance to show its leadership on the global stage. Hosting these events will bring global attention and millions of visitors to our cities—but momentum isn’t enough. To be successful, you’ll need strategy and unity. We urge the White House Task Force, to pressure Congress to abolish the $250 junk fee which will discourage legitimate visitors. ASTMEC is prepared to partner with federal, local, and state leaders to provide a seamless and secure experience. Geoff Freeman President and CEO, U.S. Travel Association
Over the next four years, the United States is projected to welcome more than 30 million international visitors for major sporting events—placing new demands on the country’s travel systems and infrastructure.To help meet those demands and enhance the visitor experience, ASTMEC will work closely with federal officials to focus on:
- Modernizing entry and visa systems, with a new Visa Task Force
- Upgrade airports with next-generation security technologies
- Assuring safe, fast travel for athletes, fans and sponsors
U.S. travel strongly supports recent federal actions, including:
- The White House Task Forces to Prepare for the FIFA World Cup and Summer Olympics of 2026, 2028
- The federal government will invest $625 million in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
- The Olympic Games 2028 will be funded with $1 billion
ASTMEC is dedicated to working with the Administration, Congress, State and Local Leaders, and the Private Sector to ensure that these historic events not only are successful, but also serve as a catalyst to improve the American travel system for the long term and its international competitiveness.
The U.S. Travel Association
U.S. Travel Association (USTA) is a non-profit national organization that represents the $1.3 Trillion travel industry. This industry is an important contributor to our country’s success and economy. U.S. Travel creates programs, insights and advocates policies that increase travel within and to the United States. Visit ustravel.org For information.
