Leaders from the United States, Mexico, and Canada convened in Washington D.C. for the 2026 World Cup draw. This event marked the initial interaction between U.S. President Donald Trump and Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney was also present.
Trade discussions among the three nations have been ongoing. President Trump indicated that the U.S. is considering whether to maintain the existing USMCA free trade agreement or pursue separate bilateral deals with Canada and Mexico. The USMCA is scheduled for a mandatory review in 2026. Prime Minister Carney has stated that the agreement has been instrumental in protecting Canadian businesses from certain U.S. tariffs.
During the World Cup draw event, the leaders participated in the selection process for their respective countries. They also took a photograph with FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
Following the draw, President Trump engaged in a discussion with President Sheinbaum. Earlier in the week, President Sheinbaum had expressed her intent to discuss trade issues, including steel, aluminum, and automobile tariffs, with President Trump. The Trump administration has continued negotiations regarding tariffs. Prime Minister Carney was observed seated alongside President Sheinbaum. Both Sheinbaum and Carney have expressed interest in maintaining the USMCA, which has been in effect since 1994. The agreement's future is subject to the outcome of the 2026 mandatory review.
President Trump also held a 45-minute meeting with President Sheinbaum and Prime Minister Carney. President Sheinbaum's statement indicated discussions focused on the World Cup and an agreement to continue working on trade issues through their respective teams. Prime Minister Carney's office confirmed that the three leaders agreed to continue collaboration on the USMCA.
The United States, Mexico, and Canada are co-hosting the upcoming FIFA World Cup.