Donald Trump told a FIFA reception in New York that the United States should host the World Cup again without Canada and Mexico, while repeating false claims that the 2020 election was rigged against him.
Trump targets North American bid
The 2026 tournament is already set to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Trump's suggestion to exclude the two neighbours would upend the existing North American bid. Canadian soccer officials have not commented on the remarks.
Speaking at the event in Trump Tower, Mr Trump said: "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.
"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..."
Election claims resurface
Mr Trump's comments come after he renewed claims in a primetime address that the White House race he lost to Joe Biden had been stolen, despite evidence to the contrary. His sweeping allegations included "sinister" meddling by China and a "deep state" cover-up.
The accusations come ahead of crucial mid-term elections in November, which could see Republicans lose control of one or both houses of Congress, leading critics to speculate he is paving the way to challenge the results.
During his first term, the U.S. secured both the 2026 World Cup, along with co-hosts Canada and Mexico, and the 2028 summer Olympics, which will be staged in Los Angeles.
Mr Trump also made reference to the controversial overturning of a ban given to U.S. striker Folarin Balogun following his red card, after he personally lobbied FIFA boss Gianni Infantino. The decision enabled Balogun to play in the team's knockout match.
Mr Trump, who is to attend Sunday's final, told Infantino: "You made another great decision... I know you'll never get credit."
He added: "We're doing great. It's the golden age of America."