Congressman Vicente Gonzalez Urges Trump Administration for Smooth Cross-Border Travel During FIFA World Cup

Contact: Alexis Torres

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-34), a Member of the U.S.-Mexico Interparliamentary Group, is urging U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Markwayne Mullin to implement proper measures at ports of entry during the 2026 FIFA World Cup to ensure efficient cross-border travel.

In the letter, Congressman Gonzalez writes, “…to express concern as the 2026 FIFA World Cup is expected to significantly increase wait times for cargo and pedestrian crossing between the United States and Mexico border. While I am excited that the United States is a host country and the tournament is projected to generate over $17 billion in gross domestic product, significant passenger traffic surges, heightened security measures, and increased inspection protocols will cause disruptions to border lives and supply chains if proper measures are not put in place.”

As tariffs at the U.S.-Mexico border and a rogue ICE agency continue to cause uncertainty for South Texas communities and businesses, any disruptions to Customs and Border Protection operations at ports of entry could create significant bottlenecks that would cause the Congressman’s constituents to lose out on economic opportunities presented by this once-in-a-lifetime sporting event.

“If no measures are in place, I urge the Department of Homeland Security to designate a contingency plan to ensure the proper flow of traffic, smooth wait times, and efficient lines during the 2026 FIFA World Cup,” the Congressman concludes.

In December 2025, Congressman Gonzalez hosted Mayor Adrián de la Garza of Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico, at the U.S. Capitol to highlight the expected economic boost that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will bring to South Texas and the broader binational region. 

The full letter can be viewed here.