U.S. President Donald Trump has suggested that the opportunity for Russia to compete in the 2026 FIFA World Cup could serve as an incentive to end the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Since its invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Russia has been banned from all international football competitions by FIFA and UEFA. Trump, who is campaigning for a second presidential term in the upcoming November 2024 election, has repeatedly stated his intention to end the conflict “on day one” if elected.
Speaking at the first meeting of his administration’s 2026 World Cup taskforce, Trump floated the idea that reinstating Russia into the tournament could encourage peace.
“That could be a good incentive, right?” Trump said. “We want them to stop. Five thousand young people a week are being killed—it’s unbelievable.”
Seated beside FIFA President Gianni Infantino, Trump initially appeared unaware of Russia’s ban.
“I didn’t know that. Is that right?” he asked.
“That is right,” Infantino confirmed. “They are banned for the time being, but we hope that peace will happen so that Russia can be readmitted.”
Trump clarified that he had no official role in determining Russia’s participation, stating, “Infantino is the boss. I have nothing to do with that decision.”
BBC Sport has reached out to FIFA for an official comment.
Strict Policies Ahead of 2026 World Cup
Also present at the meeting was U.S. Vice President JD Vance, who emphasized that while the U.S. is eager to welcome international fans for the tournament, all visitors must depart once the event concludes.
“We want them to come. We want them to celebrate and watch the games. But when the time is up, they’ll have to go home,” said Vance.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Of the 104 total matches, the U.S. is set to host 78—including the final.
However, concerns have been raised by the World Tourism Forum Institute, which warns that strict U.S. immigration policies and global political tensions could disrupt international travel for the event.
Kristi Noem, Secretary of Homeland Security, stated that preparations are already underway:
“We’re processing travel documents and visa applications. This will serve as a dry run for next year’s World Cup.”
In the meantime, the FIFA Club World Cup, set to kick off next month in the U.S., is expected to draw nearly two million overseas visitors across 12 stadiums nationwide.
