The United States is poised to host two major global sporting events in the next four years: the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Summer Olympics. These events are projected to attract a large influx of international tourists, offering the potential for a significant economic boost. However, with visa appointment wait times reaching over 850 days at some U.S. consulates, this opportunity for increased tourism and economic growth is at risk. Long delays in visa processing could severely limit the number of international visitors able to attend, diminishing the anticipated economic impact of these global events.
Sports tourism can significantly impact local economies through increased spending on hotels, airfare, dining,…