'Massive jigsaw puzzle' - Former USMNT star Stu Holden 'encouraged by the sense of urgency' from White House World Cup task force over travel and security concerns

Holden said that the emphasis for the White House task force is on travel and security, ensuring the millions of expected visitors to the U.S., Canada and Mexico for the event are safe.

"One of the constant big questions around this World Cup - and it’s a very fair one - is security and travel," he told GOAL. "You’re going to have high-profile individuals in sports, entertainment, and politics attending these events. I don’t need to dive too deeply into where we stand geopolitically or how people feel about America to make the point. 

"When you’re talking about mass gatherings of people, there’s always going to be some uneasiness. Knowing I’ll be at these games, I have to put my trust in the organizers to do everything possible from a security standpoint to ensure this event goes off safely."

Holden said that he has confidence that FIFA is also prioritizing security, based on previous World Cups and the venues in the U.S. 

"FIFA takes this with the utmost seriousness," he said. "I’ve been in these stadiums; the security perimeters are extensive, with multiple checkpoints before you even get inside. Still, I think travel could be an issue. Our country has strong infrastructure, but the sheer number of fans will test it. Moving from game to game, with thousands of people flying the morning after matches to follow their teams, is going to be the biggest onslaught of fans this country has ever seen for a single event."

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Lalas said he's had extensive conversations with task force executive director Andrew Giuliani, offering guidance. Holden added that he was also part of those conversations following a recent charity match in Washington, D.C.

"Alexi and I even did some lobbying on Capitol Hill a couple of months back, speaking with politicians about the need to get ahead of this now," Holden said. "We stressed the importance of visas and investment in infrastructure, and we emphasized how critical fans are to the tournament. We want as many fans in this country as possible - safely and responsibly, with proper clearance. This is bigger than soccer. It’s about how the U.S. presents itself to the world. We want to be the best host, and we want this to be remembered as the best World Cup ever."

He left the meeting with Giuliani encouraged.

"In speaking with him, I heard about everything he’s dealing with - from the New York/New Jersey transit plans to getting fans in and out of MetLife Stadium," Holden said. "Kansas City, for example, just opened a new airport, and the World Cup will be its biggest test yet. You’re dealing with a range of host cities, each with its own infrastructure challenges, so it’s really a massive jigsaw puzzle. I will say I was encouraged by the sense of urgency. Based on my conversation with him, I came away feeling good about the way he’s approaching these challenges."

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has stressed that he has worked closely with the White House to ensure that 'the world is welcome at the World Cup.' 

Human Rights Watch has called upon Infantino to reconsider the location of the World Cup if the U.S. can't assure the safety of international visitors - especially considering that fans from 100 countries are expected to attend. 

Vice President JD Vance, who is vice chair for the Task Force, emphasized that fans traveling to the World Cup will have an enjoyable experience, but also issued a cautionary statement to those who want to extend their stay after it.

"Of course, everybody is welcome to come and see this incredible event, I know we'll have visitors from close to 100 countries," he said. "We want them to come, we want them to celebrate, we want them to watch the game, but when the time is up, they'll have to go home, otherwise, they'll have to talk to [Homeland Security] Secretary [Kristi] Noem."

Preparations for both the 2025 Club World Cup and the World Cup in 2026 continue to be at the forefront for host cities and both local and federal officials. Infantino said the two events would bring nearly $50 billion in economic output to the U.S. and 300,000 jobs. Holden, for his part, is eagerly awaiting the tournament.

"I had been waiting for this moment for eight years," he said. "I can’t wait for this country to be consumed by the World Cup in a way we can’t even imagine. U.S. Soccer knows it will be big, but I think it’ll be bigger. I’ve marked Dec. 5 - the draw - on my calendar. We’ll be there at FOX Sports, and that’s when it will feel real for everyone. Players and administrators can map the path to knockouts, fans can circle games, book hotels, and buy tickets.... In 10 years, I’ve covered huge events - Qatar, Russia, Women’s World Cups in Vancouver and Australia. But this will be on another level."