FIFA Confirms Donald Trump’s Authority in Deciding World Cup Host Cities’ Safety to Sky News
FIFA has officially confirmed that the U.S. government holds the authority to evaluate the safety of cities designated to host World Cup events. This announcement follows remarks made by President Donald Trump regarding potential changes to hosting locations due to safety concerns.
Trump’s Safety Concerns for World Cup Cities
During a recent speech at the White House, President Trump threatened to exclude the Boston area from hosting responsibilities. This assertion came after he criticized crime rates in cities governed by Democrats, specifically referencing California’s potential loss of matches during the World Cup and the upcoming 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.
FIFA’s Stance on Safety
FIFA President Gianni Infantino, a notable ally of President Trump, has remained supportive of the president’s comments. In a statement to Emegypt, FIFA emphasized that safety and security are paramount at all events. They stated, “Safety and security are obviously the governments’ responsibility, and they decide what is in the best interest for public safety.”
World Cup Host Cities and Matches
The 2026 men’s football World Cup, which features an expanded format of 48 teams, will be primarily hosted in the United States. The U.S. is set to host 78 of the 104 matches, including the final scheduled for New Jersey. Other matches will take place in Canada and Mexico.
- U.S. Matches: 78
- Final Match Location: New Jersey
- Total Matches: 104
- Host Nations: United States, Canada, Mexico
Although Boston is not hosting matches directly, the area, particularly Foxborough, which is home to the NFL’s New England Patriots, will stage seven matches approximately 30 miles outside Boston.
Trump and Infantino’s Long-Standing Alliance
Trump and Infantino’s relationship dates back to Trump’s first term when the U.S. won the hosting rights for the World Cup. Since then, they have frequently appeared together at international events. Infantino was also present when Trump hosted world leaders to discuss the Israel-Gaza peace deal.
In light of mounting safety issues, President Trump criticized Boston’s mayor, Michelle Wu, linking her leadership to rising crime. These comments were made during a gathering with Argentine President Javier Milei. Trump’s administration has responded to public safety concerns by deploying National Guard troops to various cities including Washington, Los Angeles, and Memphis.
As tensions rise regarding city safety, FIFA’s role and the U.S. government’s authority in deciding hosting conditions for the World Cup continue to draw attention.
