President Donald Trump has suggested that allowing Russia back into the FIFA World Cup could serve as a “good incentive” to bring an end to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, seemingly unaware that Russia is currently banned from international competitions, including the tournament.
During a recent FIFA Task Force meeting at the White House, where FIFA President Gianni Infantino was present, Trump was taken aback when a journalist inquired about Russia’s exclusion from the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June to July next year. “I didn’t know that. Is that right?” Trump responded, expressing surprise at the news.
Infantino quickly clarified, stating, “They are banned for the time being from playing. We hope that something happens and peace will occur, and then we can be readmitted. So that’s what we hope.”
In response to Infantino’s comments, Trump remarked, “Hey, that could be a good incentive, right? We want to get him to stop. We want them to stop. We want the 5,000 young people a week who are being killed. It’s not even believable.”
Earlier in the meeting, Trump touted the economic benefits of the United States serving as one of the three host nations, despite the uncertainties surrounding his tariffs. “These events will also generate tens of billions of dollars in economic activity for local businesses and create thousands and thousands of jobs for American workers,” he asserted, vowing that his administration would do everything possible to ensure the tournament’s success.
“We’re going to make sure of it,” Trump declared. “The State Department, the Department of Homeland Security, and every part of the U.S. government will be working to ensure that these events are safe and successful. And those traveling to America to watch the competition will have a seamless experience during every part of their visit.”
“It’s going to be very special. Together, we will ensure that the 2026 World Cup will be the best-run soccer tournament the world has ever seen.”
Despite concerns regarding his contentious relationships with neighboring countries, Trump insisted that ties with Canada and Mexico are improving, even in light of the tariffs he imposed. “Yeah, we are,” he confirmed enthusiastically. “It’s total, complete. We talked about it even today at our meeting with Canada. And the level is total. It’s going to be perfect. It’s going to be beautiful. They’re very excited about it.”
In addition to the FIFA World Cup, the United States is also preparing to host the Club World Cup this year, with the event set to commence on June 14 and conclude on July 13.
