In a revelation that has sent shockwaves through the international football community, former US President Donald Trump allegedly plotted to seize control of the 2026 World Cup hosting rights from the tri-nation bid of the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The North American Power Play
According to an exclusive investigation by The Independent, Trump envisioned a dramatic solo bid that would have seen the world's biggest sporting event hosted exclusively within United States borders. The ambitious plan would have effectively sidelining neighbouring Canada and Mexico from the historic joint hosting arrangement.
The stunning revelation comes from a forthcoming book by journalist Jonathan Clegg, detailing how Trump's administration explored the feasibility of this football coup during his presidency.
Beckham's Miami Dream Faces Trump Hurdles
The political drama extends to Inter Miami, where co-owner David Beckham encountered significant challenges in securing a stadium site for his MLS franchise. The football legend's ambitious plans repeatedly clashed with Trump's property interests in Florida, creating additional tension between the sports icon and the former president.
"The intersection of football ambitions and political power has never been more apparent," the investigation reveals, highlighting how stadium politics became entangled with presidential influence.
FIFA's Historic Decision
The United 2026 bid, representing the first World Cup to be shared across three nations, ultimately prevailed in the FIFA vote. The tournament is set to feature an expanded 48-team format, marking a new era for international football.
Trump's alleged solo bid plans raise serious questions about:
- The political influence on major sporting events
- International relations within North American partnerships
- The balance between national interest and regional cooperation
- The future of mega-event bidding processes
Legacy and Implications
As preparations for the 2026 tournament accelerate, these revelations cast new light on the complex political manoeuvring behind what was presented as a unified North American effort. The episode serves as a stark reminder of how closely intertwined global sports and high-stakes politics have become.
The full extent of Trump's World Cup ambitions and their potential impact on international football relations continues to unfold, leaving football authorities and political observers alike questioning what might have been.
