On Tuesday, President Trump greeted FIFA’s new president, Gianni Infantino, at the White House, where he praised the upcoming 2026 World Cup as a “very important and special event.” Infantino stepped into his role following the departure of former FIFA president Sepp Blatter, who led the organization for over 17 years before being removed amid widespread bribery and corruption investigations.
North America has been chosen to host the 2026 World Cup, with the games being shared across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. In their decision, FIFA members favored the North American bid for its financial and logistical reliability, granting it 134 votes in support.
President Trump expressed optimism about a “great partnership” with Canada and Mexico as they prepare for the event. This collaboration is particularly noteworthy as these nations are currently involved in trade discussions. This week, the president announced a trade “understanding” with Mexico, which could potentially reshape the North American Free Trade Agreement. However, Canada’s involvement in any revised deal remains uncertain.
Furthermore, President Trump addressed ongoing issues related to funding a wall along the U.S.-Mexico border. He confidently told reporters that “the wall will be paid for very easily” by Mexico, though the Mexican government has consistently refuted any responsibility for financing the border wall.
As the World Cup returns to the U.S. for the first time since 1994, President Trump acknowledged that he would no longer be in office by the time the event occurs. With a hint of humor, he mused, “Maybe they’ll extend the term,” adding, “the media is going to be very boring if they don’t.”
As the international event will now return to the U.S. for the first time since 1994, Mr. Trump acknlowedged he would be out of office by the time the games take place. “Maybe they’ll be extend the term,” Mr. Trump joked, adding, “the media is going to be very boring if they don’t.”
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In a separate jab at the press, Infantino presented Mr. Trump with his own personal set of red and yellow penalty cards, typically used during soccer matches. Infantino suggested the president could use a card during future meetings with the press. The president agreed, saying, “I like that!” as he pretended to throw out a red card at the assembled press pool.Â
