President Donald Trump warned that several World Cup matches currently slated for suburban Boston could be relocated, alleging parts of the city have been “taken over” and questioning the leadership of Boston Mayor Michelle Wu.
Foxborough, Massachusetts, roughly 30 miles southwest of Boston, is scheduled to host multiple fixtures during the 2026 tournament, which the U.S. is co-hosting with Mexico and Canada. Trump, speaking during a meeting with Argentine President Javier Milei, made clear his dissatisfaction with local governance.
When asked about Mayor Michelle Wu, Trump acknowledged her intelligence but labelled her “radical left,” saying, “We could take them away … I love the people of Boston … but your mayor is not good.” He further asserted, “they’re taking over parts of Boston,” though he offered no concrete evidence. He added that recovering control would take “about two seconds” — a remark emphasizing his view of federal authority over municipal affairs.
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Trump also floated calling FIFA President Gianni Infantino, describing him as “phenomenal,” and said that if he felt conditions were unsafe, he would push for matches to be moved. “He wouldn’t love to do it, but he’d do it very easily,” Trump said.
Mayor Wu’s office responded with a statement emphasising the city’s readiness: “Boston is honoured and excited to host World Cup matches, and we look forward to welcoming fans from around the world to our beautiful city, the cradle of liberty and city of champions.”
Yet despite Trump’s public pressure, FIFA retains exclusive control over match locations. Victor Montagliani, the organisation’s vice president, has repeatedly reaffirmed that “It’s FIFA’s tournament, FIFA’s jurisdiction. FIFA makes those decisions.”
Any change to the hosting plan at this stage would present enormous logistical and contractual challenges, given that match venues were finalised in 2022.
Foxborough’s Gillette Stadium is set to host seven World Cup matches, including early group stage and knockout round fixtures. The stadium forms part of the 16-city footprint across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
Trump’s threat follows broader comments he’s made about declaring cities “not safe” for major events — remarks previously directed at San Francisco, Seattle, and Los Angeles.
While the U.S. president may campaign for venue changes, his ability to enforce them is extremely limited without FIFA’s consent.
