Fútbol Diplomacy and North American Disintegration

The United States, Mexico, and Canada are preparing to co-host the FIFA World Cup at a tense moment for the “Three Amigos.” Once a symbol of economic integration, North America is grappling with trade frictions, migration pressures, and security challenges. Fortunately, as two new Stimson Center analyses argue, the World Cup could help turn things around. The tournament provides a special opportunity for high-level “sports diplomacy.” As all three countries are hosting matches, the leaders have a chance to visit one another, sit side by side at games, and participate in “soccer summits” to overcome stubborn policy disagreements. These dialogues could increase the chances of a successful review of the North American free trade agreement, reduce the chances of unilateral U.S. military action against Mexican cartels, and stabilize rocky US-Canada relations.