For the second consecutive year, the United States is set to host two major international football events. First, the FIFA Club World Cup will take place this June on American soil. Following that, the 2026 FIFA World Cup is scheduled, with the U.S. serving as the primary host, alongside co-hosts Canada and Mexico.
In preparation for the upcoming World Cup, FIFA President Gianni Infantino recently held his first meeting with former U.S. President Donald Trump. During the discussion, Trump suggested that participation in the 2026 World Cup could serve as an “incentive” for Russia to end its war with Ukraine.
Trump expressed surprise when told that Russia is currently barred from participating in FIFA competitions due to international sanctions. He asked Infantino for clarification, saying, “I didn’t know that. Is that true? Would you like to explain it?”
In response, FIFA President Infantino confirmed, “Yes, that’s correct. They’re currently not allowed to play, but we hope that something changes and peace is restored so that Russia can be reintegrated.”
Reacting to Infantino’s explanation, Trump commented that the possibility of World Cup participation could motivate Russia to stop the war: “It’s possible. That could be a good incentive, right? We want them to stop. We want them to stop. Five thousand people are dying every week — it’s hard to believe. We’re going to stop this war.”
The 2026 World Cup, jointly hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, will feature a record 48 teams. Aside from the three host nations, 45 teams will qualify through regional playoffs. However, Russia is not among them. Since their match against Croatia in 2022, Russia has not participated in any official FIFA competition. In the meantime, they have played 16 friendly matches, winning 11.
Commenting on the joint hosting with Canada and Mexico, Trump said, “I don’t see any concerns here. We can organize it very well with both countries. They just need to contribute a bit more financially. They’re getting something they probably shouldn’t be getting, and they know it too.”
UA / TDS
