Trump's 'Not Safe' Cities Threaten 2026 World Cup Hosting Plan
The 2026 World Cup, set to be hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico, has sparked discussions about city safety and hosting plans. FIFA, the governing body, has confirmed the use of NFL stadiums like Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium. However, recent comments by U.S. President Donald Trump have raised questions about potential changes to the hosting plan.
Trump suggested he could declare certain cities 'not safe' for the event, potentially altering the hosting plan. This comes despite FIFA's decision-making power over city selection and the contractual agreements between FIFA and the 16 host cities. The decision to choose or change venues primarily lies with the FIFA Executive Committee, requiring mutual consent from the host countries for significant changes.
Trump's comments were in response to cities opposing his immigration and crime crackdowns. He did not mention any cities by name but hinted at moving games out of 'radical left' locations. This proposal could face logistical and legal challenges, given the eight-month timeline before the June 11 kickoff and the existing contracts with host cities.
The 2026 World Cup, the first to feature 48 teams, is set to take place in three countries. While Trump's comments raise questions about potential changes, the decision-making process and contractual agreements currently support the existing hosting plan. FIFA, not any government, decides the host cities, and the host countries have agreed to the event. The World Cup and Olympic Games rely on host nation governments for security and other commitments worth hundreds of millions of dollars.
