Members of Congress are increasingly focusing on sports diplomacy as the United States prepares to host both the Olympic Games and the World Cup. Lawmakers are urging the State Department to enhance its role in promoting American values through international sports events. This push comes during a period of heightened global competition, where sports are seen as a powerful tool for soft power and international engagement.
Representative Sydney Kamlager-Dove of California exemplified this effort by announcing nearly $80 million in funding to electrify the city’s bus system ahead of the 2028 Summer Olympics. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to ensure the U.S. is well-prepared to host major international events. The investment aims to improve public transportation infrastructure, aligning the city’s capabilities with global standards and showcasing the nation’s commitment to sustainable development and technological advancement.
These developments reflect a growing trend of using sports as a platform for diplomatic engagement. By leveraging the global reach of the Olympics and World Cup, U.S. lawmakers aim to strengthen international relationships and position the country as a leader in global sports. The integration of sports diplomacy with infrastructure development underscores a multifaceted approach to national strategy, combining economic and diplomatic objectives under a shared vision of global engagement and cultural exchange.