If you’re planning to travel to the United States for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Vice President JD Vance has a message for you.
Despite making headlines last month for accidentally dropping and breaking the National Championship Football trophy during Ohio State University’s visit to the White House, Vance has now been appointed by former President Donald Trump as vice chair of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The mishap went viral on social media, with critics joking that the broken trophy symbolized the state of the U.S. economy.
Addressing the incident during a May 6 press conference about the upcoming World Cup—set to be co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico—Vance acknowledged the gaffe and issued a lighthearted yet pointed warning for international visitors.
“I’m proud to be vice chair for a couple of reasons,” Vance said. “First of all, the last time the president had me around a national or international sports trophy, I almost broke it. So I appreciate him giving me a second chance here.
“Of course, everyone is welcome to come and enjoy this incredible event. We’re expecting visitors from nearly 100 countries. We want them to celebrate and watch the games.”
However, he added with a note of seriousness: “But when the time is up, they’ll have to go home—otherwise, they’ll have to talk to Secretary Noem.”
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, also present at the meeting, estimated that over two million foreign visitors will attend the event. She said her department, in coordination with the FBI and State Department, will work to ensure everything runs smoothly.
