AGP Executive Report

Labor & Security at SoFi: About 2,000 hospitality workers at Los Angeles’ SoFi Stadium voted 96% to authorize a strike ahead of the June 12 U.S.-Paraguay opener, citing stalled talks over wages, job security, automation, and fears tied to Immigration and Customs Enforcement presence at the venue. Local Governance & Tourism: Broward County and Miami-Dade rolled out World Cup watch-party plans and security preparations, including free events at Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise and multiple screenings across Miami-Dade. Paraguay in the Spotlight: Paraguay’s World Cup build-up is also showing up in U.S. fan programming, with community events and public viewing tied to the U.S.-Paraguay match. FIFA Rules & Fan Costs: FIFA’s ticketing and stadium policies are drawing fresh backlash, from water-bottle restrictions to reports of fans being asked to pay after a ticketing glitch. Sports Diplomacy & Regional Politics: The “Shield of the Americas” bloc, which includes Paraguay, condemned Bolivia’s unrest and urged dialogue while backing the elected government.

Paraguay World Cup Build-Up: Paraguay’s coach Gustavo Alfaro is being credited for the team’s turnaround with a psychology-led approach, including tailored sessions and a push for “grit,” as La Albirroja return to the World Cup after 2010 and aim to carry that momentum into their final home send-off. Local Sports & Diplomacy: Paraguay plays Nicaragua in a Friday friendly at Defensores del Chaco in Asunción (19:15), with the squad fully gathered for cohesion ahead of Group D opener vs the U.S. Asunción Business & Investment: The Paraguay Business Fair (FEPY 2026) runs June 3-5 at the Paraguayan Olympic Committee, bringing 150+ firms and a matchmaking roundtable to push deals in manufacturing, agribusiness, tech, energy, logistics, and services. International Spotlight: FIFA says all 26 squad members will stand on the pitch for national anthems at the 2026 World Cup, a new “unity” ceremony change. Regional Economy Watch: Argentina’s Hidrovía Paraná-Paraguay dredging concession was pre-awarded for technical reasons, with potential logistics-cost impacts across the river trade corridor.

World Cup Ticket Politics: FIFA’s 2026 rollout is under fresh fire as U.S. fan group American Outlaws says many supporters were pushed into “nose bleeds,” while lawmakers have questioned pricing and resale practices. Labor & Security Tensions: At SoFi Stadium, Unite Here Local 11 workers are voting on a possible strike over stalled talks with Legends Global and FIFA, with members also demanding protections around ICE activity and job security. Paraguay in the Spotlight: A pilot linked to a $3.6M hashish and marijuana seizure in Paraguay denied involvement, saying he was unaware of the cargo and that his return was already planned. Local Governance: Asunción’s political beat also shows up in the World Cup build-up, with reports that Asunción Municipality repaired 1,185 potholes in seven days after heavy rains. Sports Diplomacy: The U.S., Canada, and Mexico are staging three coordinated opening ceremonies meant to project unity amid broader political controversy around the tournament.

World Cup Stadium Rules: FIFA has tightened its 2026 World Cup stadium code by banning all reusable water bottles, replacing the prior allowance for empty transparent bottles up to one liter. FIFA says the move is for safety, and points fans to alternatives like cooling tents, free misting stations, and hydration points around venues. Paraguay Football Prep: Paraguay officially inaugurated a new high-performance hotel for the national team at CARDE in Ypané and unveiled the country’s first hybrid pitch, aiming to upgrade concentration, training, and recovery ahead of the tournament. Asunción City Services: The Municipality of Asunción reports repairing 1,185 potholes in seven days after heavy rains, using 380,000 kilograms of asphalt across 4,750 square metres, with crews working Monday to Sunday in three shifts. Paraguay in the Global Spotlight: A London forum, “Paraguay Speaks 2026,” will bring postgraduate students, policymakers, and international experts to discuss education, infrastructure, energy, and the economy, supported by Paraguay’s embassy and UK partners. Green Industry Finance: DNV says it advised lenders on the financial close of a USD 650 million Villeta green hydrogen fertiliser project, covering technical due diligence across the value chain.

Labor & Security at World Cup Venues: A looming strike vote at SoFi Stadium could disrupt the U.S. opener vs. Paraguay after Unite Here Local 11 says negotiations stalled over worker data demands tied to FIFA background checks and stalled contract talks. Paraguay Football Focus: Paraguay’s only pre-World Cup friendly vs. Nicaragua is set at Estadio Defensores del Chaco, with coach Gustavo Alfaro aiming to carry momentum into Group play against the U.S., Australia and Türkiye. Local Sports Culture in the U.S.: Cities are rolling out major World Cup watch-party plans, including San José’s month-long fan fest with watch parties for all matches and free community events, plus Atlanta’s Old Fourth Ward launching a free three-day soccer kickoff festival. World Cup Costs & Fan Frustration: Reports highlight how expensive attendance is, with high ticket and travel/lodging totals, while U.S. supporters groups complain FIFA’s seating assignments scatter fans away from each other. Paraguay’s International Presence: Paraguay marked independence day at its embassy in Jerusalem, deepening ties with Israel amid broader diplomatic outreach. Trade & Environment Link: Chinese importers began buying Brazil’s “Beef on Track” deforestation-free certified beef, a sign of tightening supply-chain scrutiny tied to major global markets.

Paraguay World Cup Focus: Paraguay has named its 26-man squad for FIFA World Cup 2026 under coach Gustavo Alfaro, with Group C matches set vs. the USA (June 13), Turkey (June 20), and Australia (June 26). Regional Diplomacy & Trade: A Bulgaria–Argentina business forum highlighted plans to expand economic cooperation, pointing to EU–Mercosur as a potential boost for trade that could also help Paraguay’s wider region. OAS Women’s Rights: Hon. Emma Hippolyte was elected to the executive committee of the OAS Inter-American Commission of Women (CIM), with Paraguay among the vice presidents. Security & Law Enforcement: A Paraguay drug-trafficking probe tied to a MrBeast jet case saw authorities seize marijuana and later clear pilot Jabari Brown, releasing him after finding no link to the drugs. Sports & Community: Encarnación hosted the first L’Étape by Tour de France edition, drawing international participation and strengthening France–Paraguay sporting ties.

Paraguay World Cup Focus: Paraguay has confirmed its 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup under coach Gustavo Alfaro, with Group C opponents USA, Turkey and Australia, and a schedule set for June 13 vs the USA, June 20 vs Turkey, and June 26 vs Australia. Sports-Politics Angle: Alfaro’s turnaround is being credited to a psychology-driven approach, including tailored sessions and motivational themes meant to rebuild “grit” ahead of Paraguay’s return to the tournament since 2010. Diplomacy & Labor: Paraguay’s labor minister, Monica Recalde de Giacomi, met counterparts at the ILO conference in Geneva to discuss cooperation and ways to strengthen labor ties. Public Safety/Crime: Paraguay authorities briefly detained MrBeast jet winner Jabari Brown after marijuana was found on a private aircraft linked to an alleged trafficking case; prosecutors later said he had no connection and released him. International Spotlight: Paraguay also marked its independence anniversary at its Jerusalem embassy reception, underscoring deepening ties with Israel.

Paraguay World Cup Squad: Paraguay named its 26-man roster for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Brighton midfielder Diego Gómez among the headline picks and Gustavo Alfaro leaning on a mix of overseas experience and youth; the team opens Group D vs. the United States in Los Angeles on June 12, then faces Türkiye (June 19) and Australia (June 25). Regional Diplomacy & Tourism: Mercosur tourism ministers met in Asunción under Paraguay’s rotating presidency to push a coordinated “Visit South America” agenda, betting on integrated routes and shared promotion to boost global visibility. Local Labor & Security at SoFi: In Los Angeles, SoFi Stadium hospitality workers are set to vote on a potential strike over stalled contract talks, while officials say ICE will be involved in security but civil immigration enforcement won’t happen at World Cup events. FIFA Ticketing Backlash: US lawmakers escalated pressure on FIFA over alleged “price gouging,” calling on Gianni Infantino to explain ticket pricing and “fake scarcity.” Culture Spotlight: Asunción also saw coverage of Mi Sueño Póstumo’s big opening show for Argentina’s Winona Riders, plus Piribebuy weavers competing to preserve the Poncho Para’i tradition.

Paraguay World Cup Squad: Paraguay’s federation finalized its 26-player roster for FIFA World Cup 2026 under coach Gustavo Alfaro, stressing a disciplined defensive block, fast counterattacks, and leadership from captain Gustavo Gómez, with Orlando Gill, Roberto Junior Fernández and Gastón Olveira named in goal and a midfield built for recovery and tempo control. Local Security for the Tournament: In Los Angeles, authorities laid out major public-safety plans for matches at SoFi Stadium, warning that drone operators entering restricted airspace could face steep fines and that criminal activity could mean a “red card” plus jail time; officials also pushed fans to follow venue rules and buy tickets only through official channels. Paraguay in the International Spotlight: Paraguay deepened ties with Israel through Jerusalem diplomacy, while separate reports highlighted Paraguay’s arrests of Americans for marijuana smuggling and a major hashish seizure involving a private jet. Sports Diplomacy & Talent Links: Paraguay’s World Cup campaign also intersects with global sports networks, including callups of Paraguayan players abroad and broader regional attention as squads arrive in host cities.

Paraguay–Israel Diplomacy: Paraguay marked Independence Day in Jerusalem with Ambassador Alejandro Rubin Cymerman saying “Paraguay is in Jerusalem because it believes in Israel,” as ties deepened with Israeli officials and lawmakers. Sports & National Mood: In Paraguay, Gustavo Alfaro is credited with turning the national team around using a psychology-led approach, as the squad heads to the 2026 World Cup after securing the berth. Energy Policy: Paraguay opened its electricity sector to private investment via regulations under the Non-Conventional Renewable Energy Law, allowing homes and businesses to install solar and sell surplus back to the grid under net metering. Public Sector Careers: Paraguay’s Economy Ministry launched applications for a 2026/2027 University Internship Programme, targeting final-year students across economics, law, engineering, political science and more. Aviation Ownership: Paranair was sold to Canadian and Bolivian investors, with Paraguay’s aviation authority reviewing new shareholders for certification. Drug Trafficking Case: Paraguay detained four U.S. citizens after seizing a private aircraft carrying 261.6 kg of high-THC marijuana at Silvio Pettirossi airport, with prosecutors charging them with international drug trafficking.

Socceroos World Cup Squad: Australia named its final 26 for FIFA World Cup 2026, led by Mat Ryan and Mathew Leckie, with 17 first-timers; the big talking point is Cristian Volpato, who switched allegiance from Italy to Australia just days before the announcement. USMNT Tune-Up: Christian Pulisic ended a five-month scoring drought as the U.S. beat Senegal 3-2 in Charlotte, with Pulisic setting up Sergiño Dest and scoring himself, while Senegal’s Sadio Mané struck twice after U.S. defensive errors. Paraguay Security: Paraguay’s Navy seized 1,037 kg of marijuana near the Paraná River in Itapúa, close to Argentina, after detecting people loading packages into a canoe; an exchange of fire was reported as suspects fled. Diplomacy in Jerusalem: Paraguay marked Independence Day at its Jerusalem embassy, where Ambassador Alejandro Rubin Cymerman said, “Paraguay is in Jerusalem because it believes in Israel,” in remarks attended by Israeli officials and diplomats.

Paraguay Sports & Tourism: Paraguay is set to make cycling history with the inaugural L’Étape Encarnación by Tour de France on May 31, bringing an officially licensed ASO event to Encarnación and expected to draw riders from Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, Chile and beyond. Asunción Urban Life: Asunción’s traffic crisis is worsening as the city’s daily inflow of workers, students and visitors (over 1.5 million) far outpaces its resident population, straining roads, public services and municipal finances. World Cup Build-Up (Group D): The USMNT’s pre-tournament friendlies continue as the team prepares for its June 12 opener vs Paraguay, with tune-up matches against Senegal and Germany and roster decisions under Mauricio Pochettino. International Spotlight on Paraguay: At the French Open, Paraguayan player Adolfo Daniel Vallejo faces a “significant” sanction after sexist remarks about a female umpire, following a long five-set loss to Moise Kouame. Regional Politics (Indirect): Guyana’s APNU and PNCR criticized U.S. pressure over Cuba, arguing the U.S. blockade is worsening Cuba’s health and energy crisis.

US-Brazil Security Clash: Brazil rejected the Trump administration’s move to label the PCC and Comando Vermelho as terrorist groups, warning it’s an “attack” on sovereignty and economy, while Lula also accused rival Flávio Bolsonaro of seeking U.S. intervention ahead of October elections. World Cup Labor & Access: At SoFi Stadium, Unite Here Local 11 halted talks and authorized a strike vote over expired contracts covering food-and-beverage workers, just before the June 12 U.S.-Paraguay opener; meanwhile, thousands of tickets still appear unsold for that match. Paraguay in the Spotlight: Australia’s Cristian Volpato switched allegiance to the Socceroos and will join their camp; he’s in a group with the U.S. and Paraguay. Immigration Under Health Pressure: ICE temporarily released Jose Yugar-Cruz, facing deportation to Congo amid the Ebola emergency, after a judge found his detention unlawful and attorneys argued relocation was needed for safety. Sports Culture & Rights: A Paraguayan tennis player faces a “significant” fine at the French Open after sexist remarks about a female umpire.

World Cup Ticketing Pressure: FIFA World Cup 2026 ticket demand is surging in the U.S. and Canada, with USMNT group-stage matches drawing the highest average secondary-market prices—especially the June 12 opener vs Paraguay at SoFi Stadium—while other host-city reports warn some hotels and rooms are still struggling to sell. Paraguay in the Spotlight: Paraguay’s tourism push is getting a boost as GlobeWatch ranks the country sixth in Latin America and the Caribbean for international meetings, with Asunción also placing in the top tier for cities. Infrastructure & Trade: The Capricorn Bioceanic Corridor is in its final stretch on the Paraguay–Brazil border, aiming to cut export transit times toward Asia by about 10–15 days. Mercosur Politics: Japan’s ruling party lawmakers urge caution over Mercosur talks, warning about potential impacts on livestock imports. USMNT Leadership Talk: Mauricio Pochettino says his agent may have discussed AC Milan, but he remains open to staying with the U.S. after the World Cup. Culture & Identity: A new feature highlights the kygua vera as a Paraguayan symbol tied to women’s status and identity in Asunción’s history.

World Cup Politics & Security: The U.S. is designating Brazil’s PCC and Comando Vermelho as narco-terrorist groups, while the Trump administration has also told Miami prosecutors to stand down on criminal probes involving Venezuela’s acting President Delcy Rodríguez. FIFA Under Fire: New York and New Jersey attorneys general are investigating FIFA over “fake scarcity” and sky-high 2026 World Cup ticket prices, including how tickets were allocated and sold. Paraguay Economy: Paraguay’s President Santiago Peña signed a law scrapping a 6% airline ticket tax to cut costs for carriers and boost aviation and tourism. Local Governance & Courts: In the Philippines, Nordeco has taken its power-distribution dispute with Davao Light to the Supreme Court, seeking to prevent disruptions while the case is reviewed. Culture & Paraguay Abroad: Gloria Estefan’s musical “Basura,” based on Asunción’s Cateura Recycled Instruments Orchestra, is set for a U.S. premiere in Atlanta.

Paraguay Economic Agenda: Paraguay’s reform push is shifting from proving fiscal credibility to cutting the “cost of capital,” with analysts pointing to strong growth prospects but still-high financing costs for companies. Aviation Policy: President Santiago Peña signed a law scrapping the 6% airline ticket tax, aiming to lower carrier costs and boost international routes. Energy & Courts: Nordeco has taken its dispute with Davao Light over Tagum-area power distribution to the Supreme Court, seeking to halt the effects of a May 15 expropriation and possession order. World Cup Politics & Paraguay: FIFA’s ticket pricing is under investigation by U.S. state attorneys-general after complaints of “fake scarcity” and “impossibly high prices,” while Paraguay’s World Cup campaign is framed around its return after missing prior tournaments. Sports & Culture: Recoleta made Sudamericana history by topping its group unbeaten, and Asunción’s International Book Fair runs May 28–June 7 at Centro de Convenciones Mariscal.