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U.S. President Donald Trump has hinted that matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup could be withdrawn from U.S. host cities he considers unsafe, raising tension over security and venue stability just months before the tournament.
Washington D.C., USA — September 26, 2025 (UTC).
U.S. President Donald Trump has hinted that matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup could be withdrawn from U.S. host cities he considers unsafe, raising tension over security and venue stability just months before the tournament.
Asked whether matches in Seattle or the San Francisco area might be relocated, Trump answered: “We’re going to make sure they’re safe … If I think it isn’t safe, we’ll move it into a different city.”
He criticised those city governments, calling them “run by radical left lunatics who don’t know what they’re doing.”
Trump claimed to have authority via his close relationship with FIFA President Gianni Infantino, suggesting he could leverage influence over venue decisions.
He also said that cities “even a little bit dangerous” could be replaced, and tied similar logic to future events like the 2028 Olympics.
The 2026 World Cup is jointly hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, with the U.S. slated to host the majority of matches.
Host cities already designated to host six matches each include Seattle’s Lumen Field and Levi’s Stadium near San Francisco.
FIFA normally has final authority over match venues and scheduling, so any relocation would require their agreement.
Political backlash: Local leaders in Seattle and San Francisco, both typically Democrat-leaning, may view Trump’s remarks as politicised interference.
Operational disruption: A shift in venues would have massive logistical consequences for ticket holders, broadcasters, and local organising committees.
Security assurance pressure: Host cities will need to bolster safety protocols to avoid triggering relocation threats.
FIFA pushback: The global governing body may resist political interference in its venue mandates.
Which alternate cities Trump has in mind if a relocation becomes necessary.
Whether FIFA or local organising committees will acquiesce to changes.
How stakeholders—teams, sponsors, local governments—will respond to relocation threats.
