Trump threatens to move 2026 World Cup matches from 'dangerous' US cities
Former president vows to reroute games from Seattle and San Francisco amid crime concerns as the United States prepares to host the tournament
Donald Trump said he is prepared to move 2026 World Cup matches away from dangerous U.S. cities, arguing that safety at venues must come first for the tournament co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. The remarks, circulated in media and on social channels, suggested that any city deemed unsafe could see its matches relocated to other venues within the United States.
Trump singled out Seattle and San Francisco, noting that Seattle’s Lumen Field and Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, about an hour from San Francisco, are both slated to host six matches. The comments come as the World Cup schedule comes into sharper focus, with the draw to determine group-stage matchups due to take place in Washington, D.C., on December 5.
Trump has also pledged that Chicago could be made safe for the World Cup, even though the city is not currently slated to host games. He indicated he might deploy federal troops to cities considered dangerous, following earlier deployments in Los Angeles and Washington, D.C., as part of his push to secure venues and ensure public order during the event.
The World Cup draw in December will determine venues and group pairings as the United States, along with Canada and Mexico, prepares to host games across multiple cities in North America.
Context surrounding the tournament includes broader geopolitical considerations that have intersected sporting decisions. Sky News cited a spokesperson linked to Senator Marco Rubio as saying the United States would oppose any effort to ban Israel’s national team from the World Cup, reflecting the high-profile role politics has played in the event. FIFA President Gianni Infantino acknowledged the challenge of sanctioning countries involved in conflict but stressed the humanitarian concerns when civilians suffer. Russia remains barred from international competition and will not participate in the World Cup, while Israel’s national team is anticipated to participate if it qualifies. The tournament is primarily set to be held in the United States, with additional matches scheduled in Mexico and Canada.