Trump Discusses FIFA World Cup Plans Amid Safety Concerns
On Wednesday, President Donald Trump addressed the ongoing discussion about potentially relocating FIFA World Cup matches away from Boston, marking the second consecutive day of this topic after Mayor Michelle Wu emphasized her confidence in the current schedule.
Next summer, Boston and its surroundings are set to host seven matches, including five group stage games, one round of 32 game, and the first quarterfinal on July 9.
During a press conference in the Oval Office where he highlighted his administration’s efforts to combat crime, Trump was again questioned about issues related to Boston.
“Someone mentioned, ‘If Boston doesn’t improve conditions, why not think about moving the World Cup from there?’ The answer is yes. FIFA can be moved,” Trump stated.
He further applied this logic to the 2028 Summer Olympics, which are set for Los Angeles. “If we’re concerned about safety in Los Angeles, that could affect the Olympics too. But, let’s focus on FIFA first. FIFA is under a lot of scrutiny,” he remarked. “If any city, Boston or otherwise, isn’t able to meet the standards we expect, we will shift those World Cup games elsewhere.”
Previously, Trump suggested he might reach out to FIFA President Gianni Infantino to discuss moving the tournament away from Boston, citing safety worries following recent unrest in the city that resulted in significant property damage and disturbances.
In response, Mayor Wu told FOX News Digital that Boston is “honored and excited” to host the World Cup. She expressed enthusiasm for welcoming worldwide fans to the city, known for its historical significance and sports prowess.
Trump called Wu a “radical leftist” but added, perhaps somewhat begrudgingly, that she is “intelligent.” He noted that, despite her shortcomings, “there are worse mayors.” His remarks came after he initially threatened her position.
Trump continued, “If I believed there was a serious issue, I would reach out to Gianni and suggest relocating the event. He’s a great guy. He would comply, though he may not want to. He’d have no issue doing it right away.”
In past statements, Trump has labeled cities as “unsafe” for the upcoming tournament and hinted at revisions to the event’s arrangement. The tournament was approved to take place in 2026 and is expected to include matches in NFL stadiums across major cities.
FIFA vice-president Victor Montagliani mentioned recently that the organization ultimately decides where matches will be held and emphasized that they hold jurisdiction over such determinations.
The tournament is anticipated to generate a $1.1 billion economic boost for the area, with over 5,000 jobs created and an estimated $60 million in tax revenue generated. Organizers predict that more than 2 million visitors will flock to New England throughout the event.
Meanwhile, Wu previously remarked that the Trump administration has acted in ways that disregard legal norms, stating, “These threats carry weight at a time when federal actions have already caused significant fear and harm in our communities.”
