Fifa World Cup 2026 Commemorative Coin Act

Floor Speech

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Ms. WATERS. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.

Madam Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 7438, the FIFA World Cup 2026 Commemorative Coin Act, sponsored by the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. LaHood).

Madam Speaker, I am thrilled to have this opportunity to celebrate the FIFA World Cup 2026 through this commemorative coin bill, as it will be the first time the men's World Cup has been held in the United States in 32 years.

I am also proud this event will be held in part of Los Angeles. Not only that, but it will be the largest and most inclusive World Cup ever hosted. Host cities are spread throughout the United States, Mexico, and Canada, with 48 teams competing in 16 different cities, including my hometown of Los Angeles and 10 other American cities.

This commemorative coin will provide a unique opportunity to inspire love of soccer in the United States while also celebrating this unifying global event. It is estimated that 16 million fans will attend the matches in the United States alone.

This World Cup 2026 is organized by FWC26, a 501(c)(4) nonprofit in the United States, which is designed to continue after the event has ended, emphasizing the organization's long-term commitment to soccer in the United States.

Specifically, this commemorative coin is designed to encourage United States-based soccer programs, as the proceeds from the sale of these coins will be used to grow the sport of soccer throughout the United States with a focus on youth in underserved communities.

Madam Speaker, I applaud the sponsors of this bill, and I urge my colleagues to support passage of this measure.

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Ms. WATERS. Madam Speaker, I yield myself the balance my time to close.

Madam Speaker, this bill would direct the U.S. Mint to create a commemorative coin to honor the FIFA World Cup 2026, which will be the first time a World Cup is hosted by three nations. I hope this event and the coin that we are creating today will bring together millions of people from different countries to celebrate soccer.

Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this bill, and I yield back the balance of my time.

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