38: Politics Behind the 2026 FIFA World Cup

As the 2026 World Cup begins, the world’s biggest sporting event is also becoming a stage for broader debates about politics, access, and global influence. Questions surrounding visa restrictions, rising travel costs, international tensions, and the role of sport in shaping national image have shifted attention to issues that extend beyond the game itself. Host David M. Satterfield is joined by Baker Institute Fellow Kristian Coates Ulrichsen to examine how the World Cup has become intertwined with geopolitics, soft power, and the evolving relationship between sports and diplomacy. Together, they explore whether a tournament designed to unite the world can still fulfill that mission amid growing political and economic pressures. This conversation was recorded on June 12, 2026. Listen and subscribe to “Baker Briefing” on Apple, Spotify, or your preferred podcast platform.   You can follow @BakerInstitute on X, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube. Learn more about our data-driven, nonpartisan policy research and analysis at bakerinstitute.org.