Donald Trump is turning some of the world's most popular sporting events into his personal stage, raising questions about his influence on global sports. In this week's podcast, Jenna Amatulli speaks with investigative reporter Karim Zidan to explore whether the US president's involvement in football, UFC, and basketball is beneficial or detrimental.
Key Topics Covered
- Trump's impact on the 2026 World Cup
- His relationship with FIFA President Gianni Infantino
- Influence on UFC and NBA finals
The discussion delves into how Trump's political agenda intersects with major sports events, potentially affecting their integrity and global appeal. Zidan's reporting highlights the blurred lines between sports and politics under Trump's administration.
Additional Resources
Listen to World Cup Daily from 11 June, hosted by Max Rushden and a panel covering all tournament updates. Follow Karim Zidan's reporting for deeper insights. Watch Jonathan on the new Politics Weekly YouTube channel. Send questions to politicsweeklyamerica@theguardian.com. Support the Guardian at theguardian.com/politicspodus.
Photograph: Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images



