US President Donald Trump recently shared a bold idea – using the 2026 World Cup as a reason for Russia to end the war in Ukraine.
Russia has been banned from international football by FIFA and UEFA since its invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Trump, who is running for a second term, has promised to end the war on his first day in office if elected.
At a meeting about the upcoming World Cup, Trump said that letting Russia play in the tournament could motivate them to make peace. When he found out Russia was banned, he said “That could be a good incentive, right?”.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirmed the ban but added that peace could allow Russia to return to competition. Trump responded that he wants the violence to stop, saying that thousands of young people are dying every week. He also stated that the final decision on Russia’s participation is up to FIFA, not the US.
Vice President JD Vance, who joined the meeting, talked about welcoming football fans from around the world. The US will host 78 of the 104 matches, including the final game. While encouraging fans to enjoy the tournament, Vance made it clear that visitors will need to return home afterward.
The World Tourism Forum Institute has warned that strict US immigration rules and global tensions could affect travel for the tournament. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said visa processing is already underway for this year’s FIFA Club World Cup, which will help prepare for the much bigger World Cup next year.
The Club World Cup will be held in 12 stadiums across the US, and about two million international visitors are expected to attend. The event will serve as a trial run before the 2026 tournament.
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