Trump puts pressure again: threatens to withdraw 2026 World Cup venues from Democrat cities

Washington, USA — The President of the United States, Donald Trump, rekindled tensions this Monday with various Democrat-led cities by reiterating that he could request FIFA to move venues for the 2026 World Cup if he considers that they do not offer sufficient security guarantees.

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During a press briefing in the Oval Office, Trump was direct: “If we believe there will be any sign of problems, I would ask Gianni (Infantino) to move it to another city”, referring to the FIFA president, who was present at the meeting along with U.S. government authorities.

Seattle and Los Angeles, in the spotlight of criticism

Trump especially pointed towards Seattle, a city that recently elected Katie Wilson as mayor, whom he described as “very liberal, almost communist”. According to the president, if his administration perceives risks or failures in public order, he would not hesitate to support the relocation of scheduled matches in that venue. “We are going to move the event to a place where it is appreciated and safe,” added Trump, distancing himself from several local Democratic administrations, whom he urged to request federal support for the deployment of troops, including the National Guard, to ensure the full security of the tournament. He also referred to the state of California, when talking about crime levels in Los Angeles. He assured that, if the city requires it, he is willing to send federal reinforcements: “If they need help, I would love to send the National Guard, or whoever is necessary to support them”.

Infantino responds: safety, the absolute priority

FIFA President, Gianni Infantino, supported the need to establish strict measures, highlighting that security is “the number one priority” for the tournament organization. “We must ensure that all fans can experience a celebration of sport. This is only achieved with 100% safety,” emphasized Infantino.

The United States shares the organization of the 2026 World Cup with Mexico and Canada, and has eleven official venues, most of which are located in democratic cities such as New York, Boston, Houston, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Los Angeles and Seattle. Only in the latter are six matches scheduled, while Los Angeles will host eight matches.

A World Cup with growing political tensions

Trump's statements come as the country refines its logistics for what will be the biggest World Cup in history, with 48 teams and a schedule that demands unprecedented coordination between local, state, and federal governments. The leader had already issued similar warnings during the summer, but these resonate strongly again after the recent election of several Democratic authorities in large cities in the west of the country. So far, neither FIFA nor the cities mentioned have announced formal plans to modify venues, although the president's words mark a new chapter in the growing tension between the federal government and local administrations regarding the event's security.