The legislation is expected to generate financial resources for U.S.-based soccer programs and initiatives aimed at promoting the sport, especially among youth and underserved communities. The bill establishes a surcharge on the sales of each coin, with the collected funds being allocated to the organization FWC2026 US, Inc. This will aid in supporting soccer initiatives and legacy programs following the tournament. Importantly, the bill stipulates that the minting process should not incur a cost to the federal government, ensuring that all expenses related to the coins' design and distribution are covered by the surcharges collected from sales.
Summary
SB4141, titled the ‘FIFA World Cup 2026 Commemorative Coin Act’, aims to authorize the Secretary of the Treasury to mint commemorative coins in celebration of the FIFA World Cup 2026. The bill outlines the specifications for the coins, including their denominations and materials, with a maximum number of coins to be minted being 100,000 gold coins, 500,000 silver coins, and 750,000 half-dollar clad coins. The minting is set to occur during the year leading up to the World Cup, which will take place across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, marking the first time the Men's World Cup is hosted in the U.S. in 32 years.
Contention
While the bill is primarily celebratory in nature, some stakeholders have raised concerns regarding the use of public funds for the minting of coins commemorating a corporate event. The potential for limited public scrutiny and the oversight of how surcharges are funneled into soccer programs have also been points of discussion. Critics question whether the surcharges will effectively support public engagement in soccer or primarily benefit organized leagues, potentially raising issues about equity and access to youth sports.
Reforms the organizational structure for the Department of Transportation and Development including its duties, powers, and responsibilities of officers and employees (EN INCREASE SD EX See Note)