Hosting the World Cup Would Be a Nightmare - and a Necessary Measure
Removing the United States from hosting the 2026 World Cup would be an unfortunate but justified decision. For millions of soccer fans across the country, the tournament is more than just a sporting event – it's a chance to see their favorite teams in action in their hometowns or nearby cities. However, with rising ticket prices cutting out grassroots enthusiasts, onerous demands on cities siphoning public money, and a nation plagued by federal violence, safety, justice, and freedom being under threat, it's hard to justify the event.
The reality is that the United States is not an ideal host country at this time. Under Donald Trump's administration, foreign leaders have been detained or intimidated, human rights abuses have increased, and the rule of law has been undermined. Hosting a global event like the World Cup in such conditions would be akin to sending a mixed message – one of peace and unity, but also of division, intolerance, and disregard for basic human rights.
As fans, journalists, and citizens, we must acknowledge that our enthusiasm for soccer should not blind us to the broader social issues plaguing our country. We need to recognize that the World Cup is not just about football; it's a platform for global expression, unity, and celebration of our shared humanity.
The question remains: what can be done? Some have suggested boycotting the tournament or moving it to other countries. While these options are difficult to implement, they might force FIFA to reconsider its stance and prioritize safety, security, and human rights over profit. As soccer leaders like Concacaf president Victor Montagliani pointed out, "football is bigger than them" – the current administration's policies.
However, the reality on the ground is that the World Cup is already being politicized by those in power. Trump himself has suggested moving matches to safer cities or even relocating the tournament entirely if necessary. This would be a far more drastic measure but might be the only way to ensure the event can be held without compromising its values.
Ultimately, hosting the World Cup should not be about national pride or economic gain; it's about promoting peace, unity, and respect for human rights. If that means removing ourselves from the equation altogether, so be it. As fans and as a society, we must prioritize our shared values over short-term gains – even if it means missing out on an event that could have been a dream come true.
Removing the United States from hosting the 2026 World Cup would be an unfortunate but justified decision. For millions of soccer fans across the country, the tournament is more than just a sporting event – it's a chance to see their favorite teams in action in their hometowns or nearby cities. However, with rising ticket prices cutting out grassroots enthusiasts, onerous demands on cities siphoning public money, and a nation plagued by federal violence, safety, justice, and freedom being under threat, it's hard to justify the event.
The reality is that the United States is not an ideal host country at this time. Under Donald Trump's administration, foreign leaders have been detained or intimidated, human rights abuses have increased, and the rule of law has been undermined. Hosting a global event like the World Cup in such conditions would be akin to sending a mixed message – one of peace and unity, but also of division, intolerance, and disregard for basic human rights.
As fans, journalists, and citizens, we must acknowledge that our enthusiasm for soccer should not blind us to the broader social issues plaguing our country. We need to recognize that the World Cup is not just about football; it's a platform for global expression, unity, and celebration of our shared humanity.
The question remains: what can be done? Some have suggested boycotting the tournament or moving it to other countries. While these options are difficult to implement, they might force FIFA to reconsider its stance and prioritize safety, security, and human rights over profit. As soccer leaders like Concacaf president Victor Montagliani pointed out, "football is bigger than them" – the current administration's policies.
However, the reality on the ground is that the World Cup is already being politicized by those in power. Trump himself has suggested moving matches to safer cities or even relocating the tournament entirely if necessary. This would be a far more drastic measure but might be the only way to ensure the event can be held without compromising its values.
Ultimately, hosting the World Cup should not be about national pride or economic gain; it's about promoting peace, unity, and respect for human rights. If that means removing ourselves from the equation altogether, so be it. As fans and as a society, we must prioritize our shared values over short-term gains – even if it means missing out on an event that could have been a dream come true.