The partnership between President Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino continues to deepen, with both men reportedly finalising plans for the 2026 World Cup draw to take place at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., this December. The agreement, first discussed in a VIP suite at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium during a Club World Cup match in July, underscores the U.S. President’s growing influence over preparations for football’s most prestigious tournament.
The 2026 World Cup, jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, will be the largest in history, featuring 48 teams. Trump’s direct engagement marks an unprecedented level of presidential involvement in FIFA affairs, with Infantino describing the American leader as “probably the most respected man in sports.”
“This event will showcase America’s leadership on the world stage and the strength of our partnerships across the region,” said Andrew Giuliani, executive director of the White House FIFA task force. “The President and Mr. Infantino are both committed to delivering an unforgettable World Cup.”
The close collaboration between Trump and Infantino reflects years of mutual admiration. Their relationship first took root in 2018 when the U.S. secured hosting rights for the 2026 tournament. Since then, the two have appeared together at multiple events, from the World Economic Forum in Davos to the White House, where Infantino famously presented Trump with red and yellow football cards.
FIFA’s presence in the United States has since expanded, with its temporary headquarters established in Trump Tower, New York. Infantino has made frequent visits to Mar-a-Lago and Washington since Trump’s return to the presidency, reinforcing his view that “America is at the heart of the world’s game.”
However, the deepening alliance has not been without controversy. Critics within FIFA and the wider football community have questioned Infantino’s political proximity to Trump, especially after the U.S. President hinted at relocating World Cup matches from cities he considers unsafe. European federations have also raised concerns after Infantino skipped FIFA Congress sessions to attend meetings with Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
Infantino has defended his relationship with the U.S. President, calling it “crucial to the success of the World Cup,” citing the need for coordination with federal and local authorities to ensure security and infrastructure readiness across 11 host cities.
Trump’s administration has emphasised that the 2026 World Cup will be “a celebration of global unity,” despite ongoing immigration crackdowns that have stirred concerns about accessibility for visiting fans. “We welcome the world to our shores, but we will ensure safety and order,” the White House said in a statement.
As preparations intensify, the World Cup will serve as a defining test for both leaders—Infantino’s ability to maintain FIFA’s neutrality and Trump’s capacity to deliver a global event without controversy. With tickets already on sale and global attention mounting, the draw in Washington will symbolise more than just match fixtures—it will mark the convergence of politics, sport, and power on a global stage.
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