Boston's Leader Mayor Wu Responds to Trump's Threat to Move World Cup Games from Boston

The mayor of Boston, Michelle Wu, indicated that the municipality was ready for a confrontation with President Donald Trump over his claim that he could order FIFA to relocate World Cup tournament matches from Gillette Stadium, situated approximately 35 kilometers south-west of the city.

Mayor Wu appeared on a local podcast recently to respond to criticism from the White House, which had described her as "radical left." President Trump had warned that he would contact FIFA President Gianni Infantino if Boston did not "address its issues."

Much of it is locked down by contract so that no one, even if they live in the White House, can change it.

Wu continued, "We live in a time where for drama, for power, for pushing the boundaries ... ongoing threats ... are issued at individuals and communities who refuse to back down and submit or follow along to a divisive plan."

She also remarked, "We are going to continue being who we are, and that means, unfortunately, we are going to be in a conversation that is challenging what Boston stands for." Wu concluded by emphasizing her support for the Boston, declaring, "Ten toes down for Boston."

Trump's Comments and FIFA Involvement

Earlier this week, Infantino was seen alongside President Trump at the international summit in Egypt. The FIFA president has also been to the White House and given World Cup and club championship awards to the president as presents.

On Tuesday, Trump was asked about recent disturbances in South Boston that involved a police car being burned. Trump replied, "If somebody is doing a bad job, and if I feel there's danger, I would call Gianni – the president of the organization, who's phenomenal."

Trump added, "I'd tell him: 'We should relocate the games' and they would do that. He might not prefer it. But he would do it without hesitation." Trump also specifically targeted Mayor Wu, stating, "Boston's mayor is not good ... she's radical left, and they're dominating some areas in Boston. That's a strong claim, right?"

Previous Threats and Upcoming Tournament Information

Trump has previously suggested that he would take the same conversation with Infantino about moving games from other host cities, which are part of the 16 host cities across the continent.

The US is joint hosts the 2026 World Cup with Mexico and Canada. The 48-team event is scheduled to be held from June 11 to July 19 in the coming year.