FIFA told to ditch USA for 2026 World Cup and move fixtures to UK in shock last-minute move

FIFA Urged to Remove USA from 2026 World Cup Hosting Over Trump's Actions

A cross-party group of 23 UK MPs from Labour, Liberal Democrats, Green Party, and Plaid Cymru has signed a parliamentary motion demanding FIFA strip the United States of its role as primary host for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, citing alleged violations of international law under President Donald Trump.[1][2]

The motion specifically condemns the recent US capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, described by signatories as a "kidnapping" and interference in sovereign affairs. It highlights Trump's "repeated veiled and overt threats" toward Denmark (over Greenland), Colombia, and Cuba, arguing these undermine the rules-based international order. The MPs draw parallels to FIFA's ongoing ban of Russia following its 2022 invasion of Ukraine, calling for consistent application of sporting sanctions.[1][2]

Labour MP Brian Leishman, a key backer, emphasized consistency: "It's an invasion of a sovereign nation and the kidnap of a president in Venezuela... I'm very critical of Maduro, but what we've seen is a breach of international law."[1] The group extends demands to other events like the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, insisting the US demonstrate compliance with international norms before participating.[1][2]

The 2026 World Cup is set to feature 104 matches across North America, with the US hosting 78—including all knockouts—Canada and Mexico 13 each. Chaos could ensue if FIFA acts, just months before kickoff.[2] Meanwhile, FIFA stresses safety as a government responsibility, noting close ties between President Gianni Infantino and Trump. Trump has threatened to relocate matches from "unsafe" US cities like Seattle, San Francisco, and Boston, claiming Infantino would comply.[3]

FIFA has not commented on the motion, but tensions underscore geopolitical strains impacting global sport.[1][3]

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