‘We’ll move it!’ Trump threatens to relocate FIFA World Cup matches

Key Takeaways:

• Trump has threatened to move 2026 World Cup matches from “dangerous” cities.
• He singled out Chicago, though it is not currently set to host any games.
• Trump claims FBI efforts have lowered Chicago crime by 20-25%.
• Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker condemns Trump’s threats against Chicago.
• Tensions persist over whether federal authorities or local officials control event safety.

Trump’s Latest Threats on World Cup Relocation

President Donald Trump has warned that he may move 2026 FIFA World Cup matches out of any American city he deems “dangerous.” Speaking to reporters, Trump went so far as to say, “If I think it’s not safe, we’re going to move it out of that city.” Although he has no official authority over FIFA’s venue decisions, he insists that safety concerns might require him to intervene.

Singling Out Chicago

One city at the center of Trump’s threat is Chicago—even though it is not on the roster to host any 2026 World Cup matches. Trump cited crime statistics, pointing to “11 murders, and 38 people were shot” between one week and the next. Laying blame at the feet of local leaders, he criticized Illinois officials for downplaying what he perceives as ongoing danger.

FBI’s Role in Reducing Crime

Trump claims that FBI deployment has lowered Chicago’s crime rate by “about 20, 25 percent,” though he acknowledges more work needs to be done. “The reason crime is better is because Kash [Patel] put, about five months ago, a whole team of FBI there … and they’ve lowered it a little bit,” he said, stressing that the improvements stem from a federal push and that he could move in with stronger measures if he deems it necessary.

Political Tensions with Illinois

Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker has repeatedly dismissed Trump’s calls to send federal troops into Chicago. Pritzker vows to oppose any military occupation and maintains that Trump’s characterization of Chicago’s crime rate is exaggerated. This standoff highlights a broader conflict between state leaders, who see local safety as their responsibility, and Trump’s public threats to impose federal authority.

Broader Implications for 2026

Despite Trump’s statements, FIFA retains full control over where World Cup matches are held. Trump’s remarks on relocating games underscore his pattern of citing urban crime rates to justify the possibility of federal intervention, a stance he previously took when discussing other major sporting events and protests. With the 2026 World Cup years away, tensions are likely to remain high as officials debate the balance between national security measures and local governance.