The United States just wrapped up hosting the 2026 World Cup, an event the country hadn’t seen in over 30 years, but apparently, that’s not enough for President Donald Trump. He’s already requesting the tournament return “immediately,” even though the global soccer calendar is locked up for years. Seriously, the ink is barely dry on Spain’s trophy, and he’s ready to do it all over again.
Trump’s “Great Idea” Hits a Hard Reality
Ahead of the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, Trump told Fox Sports’ Jenny Taft he was putting in a request to host again. He admitted he was initially skeptical about how well the U.S. World Cup would perform, but the massive turnout and incredible reception changed his mind big time. He even pitched a “great idea” to FIFA president Gianni Infantino, suggesting they announce two countries as hosts next time to “take out some of the anger and the shock.” His exact words to Infantino were: “We have to do this again, and we have to do it while I’m around. You hear that, Gianni?” It sounds like he’s ready to bend FIFA’s ear to make it happen sooner rather than later.
The Brutal Truth About the FIFA Schedule
Here’s the kicker: if Trump was hoping to host again while he’s still in office, that’s just not happening. His current term wraps up in 2028, and FIFA has already decided where the next few World Cups are headed. The 2030 edition is set for Morocco, Spain, and Portugal, while Saudi Arabia gets the ball for 2034. That means the absolute earliest the U.S. could even be eligible again under the current cycle rules is 2038. We’re talking 12 years from now, folks. That’s a lifetime in sports years, and a far cry from “immediately.”
Trump’s Deep Ties to FIFA and All the Controversy
This isn’t Trump’s first rodeo with FIFA, either. He’s been deeply involved since the U.S. was awarded the 2026 hosting duties back in 2018. He’s reportedly close friends with Infantino, who even controversially presented Trump with the FIFA Peace Prize last December. And who can forget when he inserted himself into the red card drama surrounding U.S. star Folarin Balogun? He pushed Infantino to reverse Balogun’s one-match suspension, and guess what? It happened, sparking another wave of controversy. Trump was even at MetLife Stadium for the final, presenting medals and the trophy to Spain’s victorious team, even if he was a little awkwardly still on stage during La Roja’s celebrations.
So, while Trump wants the party back in the U.S. ASAP, fans will have to wait for the 2038 World Cup to even be a possibility. It’s going to be a long 12 years to see if the U.S. can host again, and whether Trump will still be around to make good on his promise to Gianni.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
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