U.S. President Donald Trump was reminded on Wednesday that FIFA, not any government entity, has the ultimate authority in determining the host cities for the 2026 World Cup matches. Despite Trump’s recent suggestion that he could deem certain cities “unsafe” for the 104-game soccer tournament and revise the existing hosting plan, FIFA is the governing body responsible for such decisions.
The approved hosting plan, confirmed by FIFA in 2022, features prominent NFL stadiums in close proximity to major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. The 11 U.S. host cities, along with three in Mexico and two in Canada (Toronto and Vancouver), have contractual agreements with FIFA. Any alterations to these arrangements would present significant logistical and legal challenges, especially considering the tournament’s imminent kickoff on June 11.
Speaking at a sports business conference in London, FIFA’s vice president Victor Montagliani emphasized that FIFA holds the jurisdiction over the tournament and has the sole authority to make decisions regarding host cities. Stressing the significance of football transcending political debates, the Canadian president of CONCACAF highlighted the sport’s enduring importance beyond individual leaders or national boundaries.
Trump’s remarks last week, in response to concerns about World Cup cities opposing his policies on immigration and crime, suggested the possibility of relocating the tournament if he deemed any city unsafe. However, the World Cup and Olympic Games heavily rely on financial commitments from host nations for various aspects, including security, visa processing, and law enforcement.
Despite Trump’s statements, FIFA president Gianni Infantino, with whom Trump shares a close working relationship, has not publicly addressed the issue of cities being considered too hazardous to host games in the upcoming 48-team tournament. The event is scheduled to culminate on July 19, with FIFA retaining full control over the decision-making process.
