US trade creates coalition for sports and travel ‘mega events’

The US Travel Association repeated a call for the Trump administration to scrap a $250 fee for international arrivals from non-visa waiver countries.

 

The trade body made the plea while unveiling a new industry coalition designed to support America hosting “once-in-a-generation” global sporting events such as the 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2026 summer Olympic Games.

 

 America’s Sports and Travel Mega Event Coalition (ASTMEC) is a national alliance of sports, travel and business leaders.

 

The coalition aims to work with the US government “to ensure the necessary policies, infrastructure and security systems are in place to support these and other "mega events” which are expected to generate a $100 billion economic impact over the next four years.

 

The $250 ‘visa integration fee’ is intended to discourage visa overstays and fund border security but does not include countries such as the UK participating in the US visa waiver scheme.  

 

US Travel Association president and chief executive Geoff Freeman said: “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. 

 

“This is another opportunity for the US 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.”

 

The US is projected to welcome more than 30 million international visitors for major sporting events over the next four years.

 

But the association warned that this will place “new demands” on the country’s travel systems and infrastructure.

 

ASTMEC will work closely with federal officials to focus on:

• Modernising 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

A statement added that the coalition “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”.