FIFA has emphasized that the responsibility for ensuring the safety and security of World Cup host cities lies with local governments, not the organization itself. The statement came in response to remarks by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who had suggested the possibility of moving World Cup games scheduled for Boston if the city did not address what he considered security issues.
Trump made his comments following a spate of violence in Boston, including an incident where a police vehicle was set on fire. He suggested that if the conditions in the city did not improve, he would personally contact FIFA President Gianni Infantino to request that the World Cup games be relocated. Trump’s remarks targeted Boston’s handling of public safety, but FIFA was quick to clarify its stance, underlining that the decision on whether a host city remains viable is a matter for the government and not the governing body of football.
A FIFA spokesperson reiterated the importance of safety and security at all FIFA events and confirmed that such decisions rest with local authorities. “Safety and security are the top priorities at all FIFA events worldwide. Safety and security are obviously the governments’ responsibility, and they decide what is in the best interest for public safety,” the spokesperson stated.
Boston’s mayor, Michelle Wu, rejected Trump’s remarks, asserting that the city was fully prepared to host its World Cup matches. In a public interview, Wu emphasized that contracts with FIFA were already in place and no individual, including the President, had the power to unilaterally move games. Wu’s response highlighted her city’s commitment to its values, despite political pressure. She also criticized what she saw as ongoing threats to challenge the city’s leadership.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, will be the first to feature 48 teams and will see 78 of the 104 matches hosted in the United States. Despite the political tensions surrounding Boston, FIFA has maintained that all host cities will be subject to strict safety and security requirements and will need to meet necessary criteria before the tournament kicks off in the summer of 2026.
As of now, FIFA has declined to comment on any of the specific cities or stadiums mentioned by Trump, leaving the final decision on security firmly in the hands of the host cities and their respective governments.
