Trump claims FIFA president would support relocating World Cup matches

On Tuesday, US President Donald Trump stated that FIFA president Gianni Infantino would endorse shifting 2026 World Cup fixtures away from certain American cities over security issues if it proved essential.

Back in September, Trump floated the idea of relocating matches during his drive against cities governed by Democrats, yet FIFA responded then that the choice of venues lies with the sport's international authority.

"Should a city be mishandling things and I sense unsafe situations, I would contact Gianni, FIFA's leader, who is outstanding, and suggest shifting to a different spot. He would agree," Trump remarked to journalists at the White House when questioned about possibly moving games from Boston, a designated host city.

"He would handle that without trouble."

Trump made these remarks following his meeting with ally Infantino in Egypt at a gathering focused on a potential truce in Gaza, attended by over two dozen global figures debating Middle East stability.

The US leader further implied that, when needed, portions of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics might also shift venues.

"The same applies to the Olympics," Trump added. "If I believed Los Angeles was not ready adequately, I would relocate it elsewhere."

The Republican president's team has sent in National Guard personnel to Democrat-controlled American cities this year, despite resistance from local and regional officials, claiming the move addresses crime and progressive protests.

Boston will stage seven fixtures in the forthcoming World Cup. San Francisco and Seattle each plan for six games, whereas Los Angeles is set for eight.

The United States shares hosting duties for the next World Cup with Mexico and Canada, yet it will manage most of the fixtures in the competition, now enlarged to feature 48 nations.

Earlier this year, Trump named himself head of a White House committee overseeing the World Cup.