Donald Trump told a FIFA reception in New York that he deserves credit for the World Cup and Olympics because the 2020 election was rigged against him, and he suggested the United States should host the World Cup again without Canada or Mexico as co-hosts.
The former president spoke at a FIFA event at Trump Tower in Manhattan, where he renewed claims that the 2020 race he lost to Joe Biden was stolen, despite evidence to the contrary. His comments come ahead of mid-term elections that could shift control of Congress.
Trump ties tournaments to election grievances
"All the way back in 2018, it was my honour to help secure the World Cup for North America, and never thinking that it would turn out to be what it turned out to be," Donald Trump said. "As fate would have it, I'm president. I said, you know, I was supposed to not be here right now. I was supposed to be president for eight years, the polls showed it, everyone showed it. They rigged the election, and what did I get? I got the World Cup, I got the Olympics…"
During his first term, the United States secured the 2026 World Cup alongside co-hosts Canada and Mexico, and the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. The 2026 tournament will be the first World Cup hosted by three nations, with matches spread across Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
"This time we'll leave Mexico and Canada out," Donald Trump said when floating a future U.S.-only bid. The remark drew attention in Canada, where soccer officials have spent years preparing for the shared tournament.
Balogun red card and Infantino praise
In his speech, Donald Trump also referenced the controversial overturning of a red card given to U.S. striker Folarin Balogun after he personally lobbied FIFA president Gianni Infantino. The decision allowed Balogun to play in a knockout match against Belgium, which the United States won 4-1.
"You made another great decision… I know you'll never get credit," Donald Trump told Gianni Infantino. He also praised Scotland fans who "took over the streets of Boston" during the tournament and declared, "We're doing great. It's the golden age of America."