FIFA officials are facing renewed concern after U.S. President Donald Trump suggested he could request that World Cup 2026 matches be relocated from certain host cities he views as unsafe or poorly managed.
Speaking at a joint press conference in Washington with Argentina’s president Javier Milei, Trump said he would not hesitate to contact FIFA president Gianni Infantino if he believed a host city presented security risks.
“If someone is doing a bad job and I think there’s a security problem, I would call Gianni and say, let’s move it to another location. And he would do it,” Trump stated.
The 2026 World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada is scheduled to begin on 11 June, 2026 and conclude on 19 July, 2026.
Trump’s remarks appeared to single out several Democratic-run cities expected to stage matches, including Los Angeles, Boston, San Francisco and Seattle.
He also criticised Boston’s mayor, Michelle Wu, describing her as “radical left,” though adding she was “smart but dangerous.”
The comments have raised concerns about potential political interference in the organisation of the tournament, which FIFA has sought to present as a symbol of unity across North America.
FIFA officials have so far declined to comment publicly, but insiders say the governing body remains committed to maintaining the agreed host venues in the United States, Mexico and Canada.
President Trump also hinted at possible intervention in the organisation of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games, citing similar security considerations.
Local authorities in several U.S cities have since reiterated that preparations remain on track and that there are no credible threats to public safety.
By: Pascal Amoah
