Removing the United States from co-hosting the 2026 World Cup would be a huge loss for everyone involved. It would deprive fans of the chance to experience an epic sporting event in their own communities. Cities had high hopes for the financial boost this tournament could bring.
The U.S. has wanted to host a men’s World Cup since it last did in 1994. Despite missing out on the 2018 and 2022 tournaments, hosting in 2026 alongside Canada and Mexico was a big win. Soccer’s popularity is surging in America, influencing other sports and igniting conversations about culture and society.
But recent events raise questions about whether the U.S. can truly host the World Cup safely. Rising violence, troubling statistics about law enforcement actions, and ongoing political tensions cast a shadow over the tournament. In 2025, 32 people died in the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The nonprofit newsroom The Trace reported that officers shot at individuals 19 times, leading to multiple fatalities.
Concerns about safety and stability are valid. Federal agents have faced backlash over violent incidents caught on video that many find alarming. It’s no longer just about soccer; it’s about the message the event sends. FIFA president Gianni Infantino argued that football should convey peace and unity. But can it do that in a nation grappling with deep divisions?
Some fans have even discussed boycotts. This wouldn’t be the first time World Cups faced backlash over political issues. But moving the event from the U.S. would present logistical challenges and financial losses for many.
Soccer is often seen as transcendent, but the reality on the ground matters. As Concacaf president Victor Montagliani noted, “Football will survive.” Yet, it’s hard to imagine how this grand event can succeed under such scrutiny.
Returning to the essence of the World Cup, it should be about celebration and togetherness. As it stands, the U.S. is in a complicated position. Would countries want to send their fans to an environment fraught with concerns? If safety continues to be a topic of discussion, FIFA may have to tackle this issue head-on. Whether or not the U.S. is suited to host the World Cup remains a pressing question.
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