FIFA expects 2026 World Cup host cities to be prepared for matches following Trumps statements

FIFA stated on Wednesday that it anticipates all 16 host locations will be prepared to organise matches at the 2026 World Cup finals, following comments from US President Donald Trump about potentially relocating events due to security concerns.

We anticipate that each of our 16 host locations will be equipped to effectively manage and satisfy all required standards, a FIFA representative commented.

Safety and security remain the utmost priorities for every FIFA competition globally.

The representative further noted that safety and security fall under the purview of the governments, who determine what serves the publics best interests.

On Tuesday, Trump indicated that FIFA president Gianni Infantino would back the relocation of World Cup matches from certain US locations if required.

During September, Trump mentioned the potential for shifting games as part of his measures against cities led by Democrats.

If a location is underperforming or if I perceive unsafe circumstances, I would contact Gianni, the FIFA leader, who is outstanding, and suggest shifting it elsewhere. He would agree to that, Trump remarked to journalists at the White House when questioned about relocating games from Boston, a designated host city.

He would handle it without difficulty, Trump continued.

The US leader proposed that, should it be needed, portions of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics might also be relocated.

The administration under Republican President Trump has sent national guard personnel to US cities governed by Democrats this year, despite resistance from local and state officials, claiming the deployment is essential to address crime and progressive protests.

Boston is set to host seven matches at the forthcoming World Cup. San Francisco and Seattle will each accommodate six games, whereas Los Angeles will handle eight.

The United States is co organising the World Cup with Mexico and Canada, yet it will oversee the majority of the fixtures in this event, now enlarged to feature 48 teams.

Out of the 16 host cities for the tournament from June 11 to July 19, eleven are situated in the United States.

Earlier this year, Trump designated himself as the head of a White House working group for the World Cup.