FIFA Rebukes Trump Over 2026 World Cup Host City Threats

U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened to move 2026 World Cup matches away from cities he deems unsafe or run by "radical left lunatics," including Democratic-led cities such as Seattle, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. This has raised concerns about the potential impact of geopolitical conflicts and domestic political tensions on the tournament, which will be hosted primarily in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. However, FIFA and its vice president Victor Montagliani have firmly asserted that the World Cup is under FIFA's jurisdiction, and decisions about match locations rest solely with the organization, emphasizing that football is bigger than any individual leader or political regime. Montagliani also highlighted the operational difficulties FIFA would face if matches were relocated and stressed that the sport will outlast any government or political slogans. While Trump remains involved through the World Cup task force, FIFA officials are pushing back against his political threats, signaling resistance to using the tournament as a political tool. This situation underscores the intersection of sports, politics, and security concerns ahead of the major international event.