President Donald Trump told FIFA officials on Friday that they should absolutely pick the United States to host another World Cup, but he had one big condition: leave Canada and Mexico out of it. He pushed the idea during a FIFA World Cup reception at Trump Tower in New York, a move that definitely got everyone talking. “You should choose the United States of America again,” Trump said, according to Politico. “This time we will leave Canada and Mexico out.”
The Future of Hosting: No North American Neighbors?
This isn’t just talk, it’s a specific ask that could shake up future hosting bids. While the next World Cup in 2030 is already set for Morocco, Portugal, and Spain, and Saudi Arabia has 2034, FIFA still hasn’t picked a host for the 2038 tournament. Trump even suggested FIFA should “pick somebody else for the next one and that will take some of the anger, hatred and steam out of everyone,” Politico reported. It’s a bold vision for how the U.S. should run things on the global soccer stage.
The FIFA Connection Runs Deep
Trump clearly has a direct line to FIFA President Gianni Infantino, and it seems to have some sway. Earlier this month, Trump confirmed he spoke with Infantino to ask for a reversal of a red card suspension for U.S. soccer star Folarin Balogun. What happened next? FIFA actually reversed the decision, letting Balogun play in the very next match against Belgium. Trump, not one to mince words, reportedly told Infantino, “You made another great decision. You’ll never get credit for that.” Funny thing is, Balogun playing didn’t change the outcome for the U.S. team, which got knocked out in a tough 4-1 loss to Belgium.
World Cup Final Set: Spain vs. Argentina
With the current World Cup wrapping up this Sunday, all eyes are on the final match: Spain versus Argentina. Trump plans to be there for the big showdown. It’s the culmination of an intense tournament, and you know everyone will be glued to their screens, no matter what drama plays out behind the scenes for future bids.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
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