President Donald Trump has indicated he might cancel the 2026 FIFA World Cup matches in Boston if Mayor Michelle Wu does not address crime, particularly violent incidents targeting police.
This statement came during a media session with Argentine President Javier Millei at the White House, where Trump mentioned he could urge FIFA President Gianni Infantino to relocate the games to a more cooperative city due to security issues.
“We can take them away. I care about the people in Boston and I know the event is sold out, but the mayor isn’t doing well. While there are worse leaders out there, she’s intelligent, though I consider her a radical leftist,” Trump remarked.
He added, “If I feel someone’s actions are wrong and there’s a risk, I reach out to Gianni. He’s a fantastic person. I’d say, ‘Let’s move it somewhere else,’ and he’d do it. It’s a simple decision for him.” This comment followed a violent episode where a group seized one of Boston’s streets.
The president of the Boston police union characterized the recent street occupations as a serious threat to law enforcement.
According to Boston police, over 100 individuals participated in the takeover, which turned into a street race early on October 5. Officers reported that people were trying to assault police vehicles with fireworks, cones, and poles.
One police cruiser was significantly damaged in the incident and had to be towed away.
Boston is set to host seven matches when the World Cup returns to North America next summer, including five group stage games and the first quarterfinal on July 9.
Trump also mentioned he might consider moving the 2028 Summer Olympics from Los Angeles for similar concerns about safety, stating, “If I didn’t feel L.A. was prepared, I’d relocate it.”
Mayor Wu responded, accusing the Trump administration of failing to uphold the law. “These threats are serious and impactful, especially when the federal government has already instilled fear and caused distress in our communities,” she said back in August.
