Trump Warns of Removing 2026 World Cup Matches from Boston Over ‘Unrest and Poor Leadership’
Story: written by Myra October 15,2025
Former U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened to withdraw Boston from the list of host cities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, citing growing unrest and what he described as “poor leadership” in the city.
Boston’s Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts—home to the New England Patriots and located about 30 miles from the city—is currently scheduled to host seven World Cup matches as part of the joint U.S., Mexico, and Canada tournament.
Speaking during a recent interview, Trump took aim at Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, a Democrat, describing her as “intelligent but radical left,” while expressing frustration with the city’s handling of recent protests.
“We could take them away,” Trump warned. “I love the people of Boston, and I know the games are sold out. But your mayor is not good.”
His remarks come after violent pro-Palestinian protests erupted earlier this month on Boston Common, resulting in multiple arrests and injuries to four police officers.
Trump’s latest threat echoes earlier comments suggesting he could label certain U.S. cities as “unsafe” for the 2026 tournament and reassign hosting rights to other locations.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the largest in history, featuring 104 matches across 16 cities in North America, including venues near New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco.
While FIFA has not responded to Trump’s comments, the organization had finalized its host city lineup in 2022, after years of planning and coordination with state and local governments.
