Donald Trump appeared to be flustered when told Russia was banned from the FIFA World Cup(Image: Photo by JIM WATSON/AFP via Getty Images)Donald Trump appeared to be blindsided by a reporter when asked about Russia’s involvement in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The upcoming soccer World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, and it will last from June to July next year. The Republic of Ireland has a chance of playing in the World Cup, though some, like World Cup winner Gilberto Silva, believe the United States is not safe enough to host the biggest event in football.
Regardless, the United States will host some of the matches next year. That said, it appeared as if Trump – who recently came up with a ludicrous way to make himself look taller while standing next to Ohio State’s football team – was unaware that Russia would not be involved in the tournament, as the country is currently suspended for its invasion of Ukraine, when asked by a reporter on the matter.
READ MORE: Amanda Balionis makes her feelings clear on PGA Tour initiative with caddiesREAD MORE: Paige Bueckers in full agreement with Caitlin Clark in white privilege WNBA debate
During a FIFA Task Force Meeting at the White House with organization president Gianni Infantino present, Trump was asked what he thought about Russia being banned from participating in the upcoming World Cup. The 78-year-old responded: “I didn’t know that. Is that right?”
Infantino interrupted, adding: “They are banned for the time being from playing. We hope that something happens and peace will happen and then we can be readmitted. So that’s what we hope.”
In response to Infantino’s comment, Trump posited: “Hey, that could be a good incentive, right? We want to get him to stop. We want them to stop. We want the 5,000 young people a week are being killed. It’s not even believable.”
Donald Trump met with Gianni Infantino at the White House to discuss numerous topics, including the FIFA World Cup(Image: Photo by Jim WATSON / AFP) (Photo by JIM WATSON/AFP via Getty Images)Earlier in the meeting, Trump claimed that having United States be among the three host nations will stimulate the economy, amid uncertainty because of his tariffs.
“These events will also generate tens of billions of dollars in economic activity for local businesses and create thousands and thousands of jobs for American workers,” he said, adding his administration will do everything it can to make the tournament a success.
“We’re going to make sure of it,” Trump continued. “The State Department, the Department of Homeland Security and every part of the U.S. government will be working to ensure that these events are safe and successful. And those traveling to America to watch the competition have a seamless experience during every part of their visit.
Get Peacock starting at $7.99
Looking for more to watch? Peacock has hit shows, movies, live sports, and more. You can watch popular titles like The Traitors, Yellowstone, and Love Island USA, along with golf tours, NFL games, and Premier League matches all in one place. Peacock offers plans starting at $7.99 a month and you can cancel anytime.
“It’s going to be very special. Together, we will ensure that the 2026 World Cup will be the best run soccer tournament the world has ever seen.”
Additionally, Trump claims that the United States’ relationship with Mexico and Canada is being repaired, despite the tariffs the 78-year-old imposed on the countries.
“Yeah, we are,” the U.S. President continued. “It’s total, complete. We talked about it even today at our meeting with Canada. And the level is total. It’s going to be perfect. It’s going to be beautiful. They’re very excited about it.”
Along with the FIFA World Cup, the United States also will be hosting the Club World Cup this year. The latter event is set to begin on June 14 and conclude on July 13.