President Donald Trump indicated he might advocate for the relocation of 2026 FIFA World Cup matches from Boston unless Mayor Michelle Wu takes action to mitigate crime issues, notably a recent violent incident involving a street takeover targeting police.
Trump’s statement came during a press session alongside Argentinian President Javier Milei at the White House. He expressed his willingness to reach out to FIFA President Gianni Infantino to transfer the games to cities that are committed to ensuring safety.
“We can pull them out. I appreciate the people of Boston. I know the tickets are sold out, but the mayor is underperforming. There are worse options than her. She may be intelligent, but she leans radical left,” Trump remarked.
“If someone is performing poorly and I recognize unsafe conditions, I would contact Gianni, the phenomenal head of FIFA, and suggest relocating the events. While it’s not an ideal scenario for him, he would comply without hesitation, especially now.”
These remarks followed a violent street takeover incident in Boston earlier in the week.
The president of the union representing Boston police officers commented that participants in the recent takeover were “determined” to confront law enforcement.
Boston Police Department reported that more than 100 individuals engaged in this takeover, which featured street racing around 2 a.m. on October 5.
Officers encountered individuals attempting to assault police vehicles with fireworks, cones, poles, and other objects.
One police cruiser was set ablaze and subsequently had to be towed, according to officials.
Boston is slated to hold seven matches during the World Cup, which will arrive in North America next summer.
The schedule includes five group-stage matches, one Round of 32 game, and the opening quarterfinal on July 9.
Fox News Digital has contacted Wu’s office for additional remarks.
Trump further noted the possibility of relocating the 2028 Summer Olympics from Los Angeles under similar circumstances.
“I could apply the same reasoning to the Olympics,” he stated.
“If I believed LA wouldn’t be adequately prepared, I’d consider moving it elsewhere.”
Wu has previously accused the Trump administration of operating outside the bounds of law.
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“In a climate where this federal administration is already inflicting significant fear and damage within our communities, such threats are severe and consequential,” Wu said in August.
These statements followed warnings from the Trump administration that it could initiate legal action or revoke federal funding if cities refused to cooperate on matters concerning immigration enforcement.
