U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to move World Cup games planned for suburban Boston next year.
The remark, made on Tuesday, has sparked confusion and debate just months before the 2026 tournament hosted jointly by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Foxborough, Massachusetts home to the NFL’s New England Patriots and about 30 miles from Boston is scheduled to host several matches.
However, Trump suggested those fixtures could be relocated, citing growing unrest and what he claimed were “parts of Boston taken over.”
“We could take them away,” Trump said of the World Cup games during a meeting with Argentina’s President Javier Milei.
“I love the people of Boston, and I know the games are sold out. But your mayor is not good.”
Trump, who referred to Boston Mayor Michelle Wu as “intelligent” but “radical left,” gave no clear details about which areas had been “taken over.”
He added, “We could get them back in about two seconds,” leaving reporters uncertain whether he meant protests or broader political unrest.
Meanwhile, federal sources confirmed that National Guard troops have been deployed in Washington and Memphis.
Efforts to send similar units to Chicago and Portland, Oregon have already led to legal challenges.
Moreover, Trump’s comments followed recent demonstrations on Boston Common, where a pro-Palestinian protest turned violent earlier this month.
Police said four officers were injured and several protesters arrested, though the city has since returned to normal.
In addition, the Trump threatens to move World Cup games remark comes amid preparations for FIFA’s largest tournament yet a 104-match schedule finalized in 2022.
The United States will host games in major NFL stadiums near New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco, with Foxborough’s Gillette Stadium among the confirmed venues.
Furthermore, FIFA officials have not commented on Trump’s statement, and city organizers in Boston say planning continues “as scheduled.”
However, the timing of his statement has fueled uncertainty for local businesses and soccer fans who have invested heavily in the event.
Boston tourism groups say any change could have a significant economic impact, given the city’s expected influx of visitors.
