Boston Mayor Wu responds to Trump’s threats to pull World Cup games out of city
President Donald Trump turns his attention to Boston Continues to target US cities It will host FIFA World Cup matches.
Trump recently suggested he could “take away” the games planned for next year in Massachusetts.
The former president specifically called Boston Mayor Michelle Wu “terrible” and pointed to a recent incident on the city’s South Side — what he called a “street takeover” — in which a Boston police cruiser caught fire after being struck by a firework.
The city will host seven games as the United States hosts the 2026 World Cup along with Mexico and Canada. Trump was asked about Democratic mayor Michelle Wu, whom he described as “smart” but “radical left.”
“We could take them away,” Trump said of the games. “I love the people of Boston and I know the games are sold out. But your mayor is no good.”
Although the former president claims he could intervene, FIFA officials say otherwise.
“With all due respect to the current world leaders, football is bigger than them and football will survive their regime, their government and their slogans,” FIFA Council Vice President Victor Montagliani said. “Does it cause the occasional headache when you have to manage the game, whether you’re in a league or an international association? Of course it does. You have to be realistic about it, but that’s the beauty of it,” he added.
Mayor Wu also responded by stating that most event planning depends on long-term contracts, making it almost impossible for a single person.
“All of this has been discussed and planned for months,” Wu said during an appearance on the “Java with Jimmy” radio show. “Most of these are locked in by contract so that not a single person can undo that, even if they’re living in the White House now,” he added.
His office also said, “Boston is honored and excited to host the World Cup matches and we look forward to welcoming fans from around the world to our beautiful city, the cradle of freedom and the city of champions.”
“For the drama, for the control, for pushing the boundaries, for the ongoing threats to individuals and communities who refuse to step back and conform or comply with a hateful agenda, we will continue to be, and that unfortunately means we will continue to be in the conversation in a way that targets the values of Boston,” Wu added in the interview.
The sites hosting the World Cup are not affiliated with Trump. Eleven U.S. cities (plus three in Mexico and two in Canada) have signed contracts with FIFA, which will face significant logistical and legal challenges to make changes in the eight months before kickoff on June 11.
FIFA leadership has made it clear that the tournament remains under its jurisdiction and not that of any national government. For now, games will continue in Massachusetts next year.
This is an evolving story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
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