President Donald Trump announced that he would relocate matches from the 2026 FIFA World Cup away from US cities deemed “unsafe,” sparking controversy among local organizers and raising concerns about security and political influence on the tournament. The competition, co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico, is expected to be one of the largest sporting events in history.
Trump told reporters that safety for fans and players would be his administration’s “top priority,” suggesting that cities experiencing high crime rates or political unrest could be excluded from hosting duties. He did not name specific cities but emphasized that the decision would be made in consultation with federal agencies.
Organizers of the World Cup in the US, however, reassured that all host venues had already undergone extensive vetting for infrastructure, safety, and logistics. FIFA has yet to comment on Trump’s statement, but insiders note that political intervention in venue allocation could complicate preparations for the tournament.
Security has long been a concern for mega sporting events, particularly in the United States, where rising crime in some urban areas has dominated political debate. Analysts say Trump’s remarks may resonate with voters concerned about public safety but risk alienating local governments and stakeholders who have invested millions in preparations.
The 2026 World Cup will be the first to feature 48 teams, with matches spread across 16 host cities in the US, Canada, and Mexico. Stadiums in major metropolitan areas like Los Angeles, New York, Dallas, and Miami are scheduled to host key fixtures, including knockout-stage games.
