President Donald Trump has suggested that the 2026 FIFA World Cup matches may need to be moved out of Boston if the city’s mayor, Michelle Wu, fails to address ongoing safety concerns. During a meeting with Argentinian President Javier Milei at the White House, Trump stated that he would contact FIFA President Gianni Infantino to request the relocation of the games if the city’s conditions are not deemed safe. The president criticized the current administration for not adequately managing the situation, citing recent violent street incidents targeting police.
Boston is set to host seven matches in the 2026 World Cup, including five group-stage games, one Round of 32 fixture, and the first quarterfinal on July 9. The city’s mayor, Michelle Wu, has responded to Trump’s comments, expressing confidence in Boston’s ability to host the event. Wu’s office stated that they are honored to welcome fans from around the world to the city, which they describe as the ‘cradle of liberty’ and ‘city of champions.’ The mayor has also accused the Trump administration of not following the law, a claim that has drawn criticism from the current administration.
Trump’s comments follow a violent street takeover in Boston where over 100 people were involved in an incident that included street racing and attacks on police cruisers. The event, which took place just after 2 a.m. on October 5, resulted in the destruction of a police cruiser that was set on fire and had to be towed away. Union leaders representing Boston police officers have described the attackers as ‘hell-bent’ on attacking law enforcement, indicating the severity of the incident.
In addition to the World Cup, Trump has also raised the possibility of moving the 2028 Summer Olympics out of Los Angeles if similar concerns arise. The president has indicated that if he believes Los Angeles is not properly prepared, he would consider relocating the games. These comments have intensified the debate over the role of federal oversight in local governance and the impact of political rhetoric on major international events.