2026 World Cup: ‘Football bigger than you’ — FIFA responds to Trump’s threats

FIFA has responded to recent threats by President Donald Trump to move World Cup matches between host cities in the United States.

Trump has, on several occasions, threatened to relocate World Cup games from certain U.S. cities.

The tournament is scheduled to take place across multiple states in the summer of 2026, including Democrat-run cities such as New York and Los Angeles.

Trump has claimed he would move matches from cities he considers “not safe,” adding that his proposals would be supported by FIFA President Gianni Infantino.

Although Trump has no legal authority to alter World Cup venues, he could seek to exert pressure on FIFA.

However, FIFA has made it clear that Trump does not have the power to move matches or determine which cities are safe for hosting games.

“Safety and security are the top priorities at all FIFA events worldwide,” a statement from the governing body read.

“Safety and security are obviously the governments’ responsibility, and they decide what is in the best interest for public safety.

“We hope every one of our 16 host cities will be ready to successfully host and fulfil all necessary requirements.”

FIFA Vice-President Victor Montagliani added, “It’s FIFA’s tournament, FIFA’s jurisdiction, FIFA makes those decisions.

“With all due respect to current world leaders, football is bigger than them and football will survive their regime and their government and their slogans.

“That’s the beauty of our game, that it is bigger than any individual and bigger than any country.”