Multiple outlets present a critical analysis of how the 2026 World Cup could be used for international influence tied to Donald Trump’s political brand, but argue it may fall short of “soft power” goals. The pieces note that major global sporting events are widely watched and can project national identity, culture and claimed values—an opportunity often described as “sports diplomacy.” However, the commentary in both SBS News and The Conversation, supported by an academic perspective cited by Channel NewsAsia, distinguishes between soft power and broad spectacle. While the World Cup’s visibility gives the United States a platform, the early signals discussed suggest the event may primarily deliver attention and entertainment rather than meaningful diplomatic engagement or value-based influence. In this framing, the World Cup could become an “own goal” if it reinforces perceptions of entertainment-driven messaging instead of strengthening international goodwill or demonstrating persuasive policy or cultural alignment. Overall, the articles focus on the strategic concept of soft power rather than any specific on-field or event-security developments, and they present uncertainty about whether the tournament’s impact will match the influence-building potential described.