On May 6, 2025, Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino held a White House meeting about preparations for the 2026 World Cup hosted by the U.S., Canada and Mexico. The meeting addressed Russia’s ban from the tournament, imposed after its 2022 invasion of Ukraine, although Trump expressed surprise at this exclusion.
Trump suggested that allowing Russia to participate in the World Cup again might encourage the country to bring the conflict to a close, while Infantino reiterated that the ban on Russia remains in place until peace is achieved. Vice President JD Vance emphasized welcoming nearly 100 countries’ fans to 78 U.S. matches, but stressed that visitors must return home as required by the Department of Homeland Security.
The administration pledged full government support to ensure a successful tournament, suggesting the World Cup could boost the economy and potentially influence geopolitical outcomes.
