Organisers of the 2026 FIFA World Cup have firmly dismissed threats by United States President Donald Trump to relocate matches from certain host cities over safety concerns. Trump had suggested last month that games in Democrat-led cities such as San Francisco and Seattle could be moved if they did not comply with his immigration and crime policies.

This week, Trump reiterated his threat, naming Boston and its Democratic Mayor Michelle Wu, and indicated he might appeal directly to FIFA President Gianni Infantino to take action.

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FIFA and Organisers Respond

John Kristick, who co-led the successful joint bid by Canada, Mexico, and the United States to host the 2026 finals, emphasized that the decade-long planning process remains unaffected by political rhetoric.

“From what I’m seeing, there has been zero distraction in terms of preparedness,” Kristick said, highlighting that tickets and hospitality packages have been sold for nearly a year. Over one million tickets have already been purchased by fans from 212 countries and territories, FIFA reported on Thursday.

FIFA also clarified that, while the governing body holds final authority over venue decisions, public safety and security remain the responsibility of governments. “They decide what is in the best interest for public safety,” the organisation noted, adding, “We hope every one of our 16 host cities will be ready to successfully host and fulfil all necessary requirements.”

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Ready Infrastructure and Flexible Stadiums

Ricardo Trade, former CEO of the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Local Organising Committee, said that the United States’ abundance of modern stadiums makes relocating games feasible, provided changes occur before the official December 5 draw.

“In a country like the United States, where every state has large, ready-to-use stadiums, I don’t see why it wouldn’t be possible,” Trade said. He also noted his experience with major tournaments, including the CONMEBOL Copa America 2024 in the U.S., which demonstrated the flexibility of American sports venues.

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Host Cities Maintain Focus

New York and New Jersey, responsible for eight games including the final, have continued with preparations uninterrupted. Alex Lasry, CEO of the NYNJ Host Committee, reassured fans that FIFA coordination and White House Task Force involvement guarantee that games will proceed as planned.

“We’ve spoken to FIFA, we’re working with the White House Task Force, I don’t think there’s any worry about the games being moved,” Lasry said. He added with enthusiasm, “I have no concern, but if anyone wants to move games, from Chicago to here or from anywhere to here, we’re more than excited to have more games.”

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Looking Ahead to FIFA World Cup 2026

With the FIFA World Cup set to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, organisers remain focused on providing a seamless and safe tournament experience. Fans can expect world-class stadiums, daily fan festivals, and high-security measures across all 16 host cities, regardless of political threats.