Trump attacks Seattle’s “very liberal/communist” mayor and warns he may ask FIFA to shift World Cup fixtures if he believes the city is unsafe.
Key Highlights
- US President Trump suggests 2026 FIFA World Cup matches in Seattle may be shifted elsewhere.
- Calls Seattle’s newly elected mayor “very, very liberal-slash-communist.”
- Says he could ask FIFA President Gianni Infantino to move matches “if safety is a concern.”
- FIFA asserts that only FIFA has the power to change host cities.
- Seattle’s Lumen Field is scheduled to host six matches.
US President Donald Trump has hinted that several 2026 FIFA World Cup matches planned in Seattle could be moved to another venue, raising concerns about safety under the city’s current political leadership.
Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump criticised Seattle’s newly elected mayor, describing her as “very, very liberal-slash-communist.” He grouped Seattle with San Francisco — another World Cup host city — and said both are “run by radical left lunatics.”
Trump’s Warning to Seattle
Trump said that if he believes a host city poses safety risks or does not value the responsibility of hosting a global sporting event, he will not hesitate to escalate the matter:
“If we think there’s going to be a problem, we will move the event to someplace it will be appreciated and safe.”
He added that his administration would “make sure they’re safe” during the World Cup.
FIFA Responds Firmly
Following Trump’s comments, FIFA clarified that decisions regarding match locations rest exclusively with FIFA.
FIFA Vice-President Victor Montagliani stated:
“It’s FIFA’s tournament. FIFA makes those decisions.”
This response indicates that any relocation would require FIFA’s approval, not unilateral political direction.
Why Seattle Is Under Scrutiny
Seattle’s Lumen Field is set to host six games during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Trump’s criticism comes as debates continue over crime, public safety, and governance in major US cities.
Local leaders maintain that Seattle is fully prepared and ready to host the tournament safely.
Moving Matches Would Be Complex
Shifting scheduled World Cup fixtures at this stage would pose major logistical challenges, including:
- Stadium readiness and FIFA inspections
- Pre-existing host city contracts
- Broadcasting and ticketing implications
- Accommodation and travel coordination
- Global scheduling and fan arrangements
Such changes would significantly disrupt planning already underway for years.
