Donald Trump never misses an opportunity to stay in the spotlight. Whether it’s comedy shows, celebrity weddings, sporting spectacles like golf or UFC events, or even tragic crises, he finds a way to turn it into a platform for attention. He has even criticised the Royal Swedish Academy, claiming he prevented around seven wars but was denied Nobel Prize recognition.
Earlier this year, the United States hosted the prestigious FIFA Club World Cup, featuring 32 teams for the first time. After Chelsea won the tournament following a month-long competition, Trump appeared on the field as the chief guest to present the trophy. But he didn’t just hand over the trophy—he stayed for an extended period, joining Chelsea’s celebrations. After all, nothing offers better PR than football, with billions watching worldwide.
Now the FIFA World Cup 2026 is approaching, with the draw scheduled for December 5th in Washington, DC. However, serious concerns have emerged about stadium selection, as Trump is perceived to have the potential to influence fixtures. Democratic-leaning cities like San Francisco and Boston may lose their chance to host World Cup matches.
Crossing Lines of Independence
Trump’s statement—”If a city is even a little bit dangerous, we’re going to move it into another city”—raises legitimate questions about political interference in sports governance.
According to FIFA guidelines, the independent governing body in each nation is responsible for all football-related affairs within its jurisdiction. Three years ago, FIFA suspended the AIFF (All India Football Federation) due to third-party influence, which constitutes a serious violation of FIFA’s statutes. Yet Trump openly mentions calling FIFA president Gianni Infantino, saying, “I would call Gianni, who’s phenomenal, and I would say, ‘Let’s move it to another location. He wouldn’t love to do it, but he would do it very easily.'” This sounds less like collaboration and more like leverage being applied to states that don’t align with his politics.
Political Favouritism Is Not New
Every World Cup since the late 20th century has drawn larger audiences, promoted tourism, celebrated cultural diversity, and provided significant economic boosts to host countries. Political parties naturally want events in their strongholds—that’s a common democratic practice.
During the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, Ahmedabad hosted the high-profile India vs Pakistan match, the World Cup final, the opening match, and multiple other marquee fixtures. The venue has also hosted numerous day-night tests and IPL finals. While the BCCI controls cricket affairs in India, its close ties with people in power have raised questions about democratic practices even in the world’s largest democracy. Favouritism toward preferred governments or states has prompted legitimate scrutiny.
The Economic and Protest Reality
World Cup events create massive economic opportunities, but they also have a long history of attracting protests.
Trump’s high tariffs on countries like China, India, and Japan—from which America imports essential products like electronics, textiles, and refined petroleum—have led to higher prices for everyday Americans. With citizens already frustrated and protesting, the President may be concerned that the world’s greatest sporting event could become a platform for demonstrations against his policies.
Attacking Critics
Criticising Boston mayor Michelle Wu, Trump called her “radical left,” blamed her for “street takeovers,” and questioned the city’s safety. He said, “I love the people of Boston, and I know the games are sold out, but your mayor is not good. She’s intelligent, but she’s radical left, and they’re taking over parts of Boston.”
This argument rings hollow. In a democratic system, people have the right to protest, question leadership, oppose policies, and choose different ideologies. If criticism isn’t welcomed constructively, it raises the question: Is Trump trying to impose his will rather than respect democratic diversity?
Questions are arising in various publications about whether his concern is genuinely about safety or about promoting himself in friendly territory. Trump’s aggressive self-promotion patterns suggest the latter may play a role.
Contractual Reality
One host city official responded candidly: “Our agreements are between FIFA and the host cities. These are agreements that have been entered into back in 2017 and 2018. The bid itself was endorsed by the first Trump administration.” (Source: Politico)
Known for his domineering communication style, Trump appears to be attempting to use the upcoming FIFA World Cup as a public relations tool to counter various allegations against him. Yet there’s a risk he may undermine international agreements and sports governance principles in the process—potentially creating more controversy than benefit.
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