Trump Suggests Russia’s World Cup Participation Could Encourage Peace with Ukraine

President Trump has expressed the belief that allowing Russia to join the FIFA World Cup could motivate a resolution to the ongoing conflict with Ukraine.

During a press conference, Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino engaged with reporters at the inaugural meeting of the World Cup Task Force.

As the 2026 World Cup, set to be held in Canada, Mexico, and the United States, secures automatic spots for the host nations in the group stage, the issue of Russia’s exclusion remains pressing. Although some teams qualify automatically, Russia remains barred from international football competitions across Europe and beyond. This includes bans imposed by the European Football Association and FIFA at both national and club levels.

“We hope something happens and peace will occur so that Russia can be readmitted,” stated Infantino in a recorded message.

When asked about Russia’s potential participation in the next tournament, Trump seemed unaware of the ban initially. “I didn’t know that, right?” he remarked as he approached Infantino. To which Infantino confirmed, “Yes. They’re prohibited from playing for the time being.”

Trump added humor to the situation, saying, “He’s the boss; I’m not the boss about it.” Nevertheless, Infantino maintained that if peace were achieved, there might be a pathway for Russia’s reinstatement.

Trump described the possibility of incentives that might lead to peace talks. “We want them to stop,” he said, referring to the staggering casualty figures, as thousands of young individuals are reportedly killed weekly—mainly civilians caught in the conflict.

“The scary situation happening there, we need to stop that war,” he added.

Currently, Russia faces bans from most international sports organizations due to the war in Ukraine. For instance, a recent hockey tournament including Canada, Finland, the US, and Sweden was notable for excluding Russia, widely recognized as a powerhouse in ice hockey.

Additionally, Russia’s status in the Olympics and Paralympics is compromised, though athletes can still compete under a neutral flag.

Sports governing bodies, including those for volleyball, rowing, and rugby, have similarly imposed sanctions against the nation.