The Donald Trump World Cup? Why the United States president is set to overshadow the 2026 tournament
Briefly

Donald Trump will oversee the 2026 World Cup during his presidency, a role that raises questions about potential political influence, especially after hopes for a politics-free event following Russia and Qatar. Trump's perceived desire for the World Cup's success mirrors Putin's involvement in 2018. His relationships with FIFA President Gianni Infantino, marked by friendly interactions, further complicate the landscape as they aim for a successful tournament. The USA, Canada, and Mexico's joint hosting solidifies Trump's connection to this global event, drawing attention to the intertwining of sports and politics.
After Russia and Qatar, many had hoped that the 2026 World Cup would be politics-free. Good luck with that.
Trump's ego does make it important to him that the 2026 World Cup is a success, similar to how it was important to Vladimir Putin in 2018.
Gianni Infantino has reportedly spent years trying to secure a White House meeting with Joe Biden, but visited Trump there in 2019.
The USA, Canada and Mexico secured joint-hosting rights for the World Cup amid Trump's first presidency.
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