"What we should do is pick the United States to host again, this time without Mexico and Canada," President Donald Trump stated on 17/7, speaking alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino at an event at Trump Tower, New York.
According to President Trump, FIFA should "choose another nation for the next World Cup," arguing this would "help somewhat soothe people's anger, hostility, and tension."
Trump proposes the US host the World Cup alone. *Video: Fox News*
The proposal comes as the US, Canada, and Mexico are the three co-hosting nations for the 2026 World Cup, the first tournament expanded from 32 to 48 teams, featuring 104 matches instead of the previous 64. The event began on 11/6 and is nearing its conclusion. The two remaining matches are the third-place playoff between England and France and the final between Argentina and Spain on 18 and 19/7.
"This is a historic World Cup. The US feels honored to welcome friends from around the world to our country. The United States is now stronger, wealthier, and more vibrant than ever. You are also a key part of making that happen," Trump said.
FIFA President Infantino acknowledged President Trump's role, calling it "the greatest World Cup of all time."
The White House confirmed President Trump will attend the final match between Argentina and Spain on 19/7 at MetLife Stadium, New Jersey. This will be the first match a US leader has attended at the 2026 World Cup, and also the tournament's final game.
 |
President Trump (left) and the FIFA President at an event at Trump Tower, New York on 17/7. *Photo: AP*
Looking ahead, FIFA previously selected Spain, Portugal, and Morocco as the three co-hosts for the 2030 World Cup, also organizing three opening matches in Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay to commemorate the tournament's 100th anniversary. Saudi Arabia will host the 2034 World Cup. No country has yet secured hosting rights for the 2038 World Cup.
President Trump also stated that President Infantino had mentioned the idea of the US and China jointly hosting a future World Cup. "That way, teams would only have to fly a short distance between matches. Players would surely like that very much," he added.
Nhu Tam (*According to Politico, AOL*)
