U.S. Travel Association Applauds Creation of White House Task Force on the 2028 Summer Olympics

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 launch of the White House Task Force on the 2028 Summer Olympics lays critical groundwork for a historic decade of global sports,” said Geoff Freeman, President and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association. “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. 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.” 

Over the next four years, the United States is projected to welcome more than 40 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 visa and entry systems, including a new Visa Task Force
• Upgrading airports and deploying next-generation security technology
• Ensuring fast, safe travel for athletes, fans, sponsors and media

U.S. Travel strongly supports recent federal action, including: 

• The creation of the White House Task Forces on the FIFA World Cup 2026 and 2028 Summer Olympics
• A $625 million federal investment in 2026 FIFA World Cup operations
• A $1 billion commitment to the 2028 Olympic Games

ASTMEC is committed to working alongside the administration, Congress, state and local leaders and the private sector to ensure these historic events are not only successful but serve as a catalyst for long-term improvements to America’s travel system and international competitiveness.