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As the President of the United States, Trump does not have direct authority over FIFA, the international governing body of soccer. FIFA operates independently and is responsible for overseeing the World Cup. However, the U.S. government can influence the event through political pressure and public statements. Trump's threats to move matches could be seen as a way to leverage his position, but any actual changes would require FIFA's agreement and compliance with international sports regulations.
Host cities for the World Cup are selected through a bidding process managed by FIFA. Countries interested in hosting submit bids that outline their infrastructure, facilities, and ability to meet FIFA's requirements. The selection considers factors like stadium capacity, security, and transportation. For the 2026 World Cup, the U.S., Canada, and Mexico jointly bid, and cities within these countries were evaluated based on these criteria to host matches.
A city's safety rating can be determined by various factors, including crime rates, emergency response capabilities, public health, and overall infrastructure. Local government policies, community engagement, and social stability also play crucial roles. For major events like the World Cup, security assessments often involve evaluating potential threats, crowd management strategies, and historical data on incidents during large gatherings.
Trump has a history of influencing sports events through his public statements and business ventures. For example, he previously owned the New Jersey Generals, a team in the now-defunct USFL, and has made headlines for his involvement in golf and boxing. His comments often reflect his views on safety and security, impacting public perception and sometimes leading to changes in event management, as seen with his remarks regarding the 2026 World Cup.
Moving World Cup games could have significant implications, including financial losses for host cities due to reduced tourism and sponsorship revenue. It may also affect local economies reliant on the influx of fans and businesses associated with the event. Additionally, such a move could create tensions between FIFA and local governments, potentially leading to legal disputes and altering the dynamics of international sports hosting.
Countries hosting the World Cup typically implement extensive security measures, including coordination with local law enforcement, intelligence agencies, and private security firms. For instance, Brazil in 2014 and Russia in 2018 deployed thousands of security personnel, surveillance systems, and crowd control strategies to ensure safety. These measures are tailored to address specific threats and enhance the overall security environment during the tournament.
FIFA has historically maintained a neutral stance on political matters, focusing on the integrity of the sport. While they have not directly responded to Trump's specific threats, FIFA emphasizes that decisions regarding host cities are made based on established criteria and agreements. The organization typically aims to uphold the tournament's reputation and ensure that it remains free from political interference.
The potential relocation of World Cup games could adversely affect local economies that rely on the event for revenue. Host cities often prepare for years, investing in infrastructure and services to accommodate fans. A last-minute change could lead to significant financial losses, as businesses in hospitality, transportation, and retail may experience reduced customer traffic, which would hurt their bottom lines and affect employment rates.
There are few historical precedents for moving major international sporting events once they have been awarded. Notable examples include the 1980 Moscow Olympics, which were boycotted by several countries due to political tensions. However, actual relocations are rare. In 2019, the Rugby World Cup matches were moved due to typhoon threats in Japan, demonstrating that safety concerns can lead to changes, but these are usually exceptional circumstances.
Political views can significantly impact sports hosting decisions by shaping public perception and influencing government support. Leaders may leverage events to promote national pride or address security concerns, as seen with Trump's comments about 'unsafe' cities. Additionally, political instability or controversial policies can lead to boycotts or withdrawals from hosting duties, affecting a country's ability to attract major events and the associated economic benefits.
