Gianni Infantino Thanks Donald Trump for Support of 2026 FIFA World Cup Amid Mixed Reactions

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has expressed his gratitude to former U.S. President Donald Trump for his public support of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Infantino’s comments followed a recent meeting with Trump in Florida, where they discussed preparations for the tournament and the upcoming 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, also hosted by the U.S.

“A Moment of Great Respect for FIFA”

In a statement shared on social media, Infantino praised Trump’s endorsement as a significant moment for global football. "His public support, as the new president of the United States, for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is a moment of great respect for FIFA and the continued growth of our sport worldwide. Together, we will ensure the United States welcomes the world and that football unites the globe,” Infantino said.

The 2026 World Cup will be the first to feature 48 teams, making it the largest in history. The United States is set to host most of the matches, leveraging its advanced infrastructure and global appeal to deliver a landmark event.

Mixed Reactions to Trump’s Role in Global Football

While Infantino’s praise for Trump emphasized their collaboration, the former president’s political legacy and controversial rhetoric have sparked debates about his impact on international sporting events. Trump’s history of divisive policies and remarks has raised questions about how his involvement may influence the inclusive vision FIFA has set for the 2026 World Cup.

In January, Trump’s return to the presidency was marked by polarizing moments, including his statement about renaming the Gulf of Mexico as the “Gulf of America,” which drew laughter from Infantino during the inauguration. Critics have pointed out that such incidents could strain relations with Mexico, one of the World Cup’s co-hosts.

FIFA’s Commitment to Human Rights

FIFA has underscored its commitment to upholding human rights and inclusivity in the 2026 World Cup, highlighting its Human Rights Framework as a key guideline. However, rights groups have expressed concerns about potential conflicts between Trump’s policies and FIFA’s principles, particularly regarding labor rights, immigration, and inclusivity.

Trump’s Connection to Soccer

Trump’s ties to soccer extend beyond his political role. As a high school student at the New York Military Academy, he played as a forward, and his son, Barron Trump, has been involved in the sport, playing in D.C. United’s youth academy and supporting Arsenal FC.

During a recent speech, Trump expressed pride in the U.S.’s role as host of major soccer events, emphasizing his personal connection to the sport. “Soccer is growing in the United States, and hosting these events is an incredible opportunity to showcase our nation’s hospitality and passion,” he remarked.

A Shared Vision or A Tense Partnership?

As preparations for the 2026 World Cup progress, the collaboration between FIFA and the United States will be under the spotlight. While Infantino has celebrated Trump’s support as pivotal, balancing FIFA’s global values with the political climate in the U.S. may prove challenging.

The tournament, hailed as a unifying event, aims to break new ground in inclusivity and scale. However, achieving this vision will require careful navigation of the complex interplay between sports, politics, and human rights.

Featured Image Credit: Instagram / @fifaworldcup, Pixabay / Gerd Altmann