US President Donald Trump Says He Will Move Matches At The 2026 World Cup From Any Cities He Thinks Are Unsafe

US President Donald Trump has sparked a new wave of controversy ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, claiming he could move matches from cities he deems “unsafe.” The tournament, set to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, will feature 48 teams, with the US hosting 78 of the 104 fixtures, including the final.

Trump’s Bold Statement

Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office, Trump said:

“It will be safe for the World Cup. If I think it isn’t safe, we’ll move it into a different city.”

The 11 US host cities currently scheduled to stage matches are:

• Atlanta

• Boston

• Dallas

• Houston

• Kansas City

• Los Angeles

• Miami

• New York/New Jersey

• Philadelphia

• San Francisco

• Seattle

Trump specifically highlighted Democratic-run cities like Seattle and San Francisco, each set to host six games, as well as Los Angeles, which will host eight matches and the 2028 Olympics.

“If any city we think is going to be even a little bit dangerous for the World Cup… we won’t allow it to go. We’ll move it around a little bit,” he added.

Authority And Logistical Challenges

While Trump chairs the World Cup Taskforce and has a close relationship with FIFA President Gianni Infantino, it remains unclear whether he actually has the authority to relocate matches. Any changes would face major logistical hurdles, especially with venues, security, and travel already in place.

Previous Controversies

Trump has repeatedly commented on the World Cup:

• In May, he suggested allowing Russia to play could be an “incentive” to end the war in Ukraine, despite Russia being banned from international competition.

• In March, he claimed political tensions between the US and co-hosts Canada and Mexico would “benefit the tournament,” following the imposition of tariffs on both neighbors.

Safety And Crime Agenda

Trump has made tackling crime a key priority. Recent actions include deploying National Guard troops and federal officers to Washington DC, Los Angeles, Memphis, and Chicago. He has cited safety concerns as central to his potential decisions regarding World Cup host cities.

The group stage draw for the 2026 World Cup is scheduled for 5 December in Washington DC, with the tournament running from 11 June to 19 July.