Boycott Calls Grow for Major Event Amid Trump’s Opposition: ‘Avoid the USA!’
Calls for a boycott are rising ahead of the 2026 World Cup due to concerns linked to former President Donald Trump. Sepp Blatter, former FIFA President, has voiced strong advice for soccer fans: “Stay away from the USA!” This comment was made in a post on X, highlighting underlying tensions surrounding the event. The World Cup is scheduled to take place from June 11 to July 19, 2026, across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Concerns About the United States
Blatter’s warning stems from troubling remarks made by law expert Mark Pieth, who has addressed ongoing issues in the U.S., such as political polarization and immigration policies. These problems were magnified following the deadly incident involving an ICE agent. Pieth mentioned these stress factors could make attending the World Cup a significant risk for international visitors.
A Historical Perspective
In light of these developments, Oke Göttlich, president of FC St. Pauli and a vice president of the German Football Association, has urged European teams to deliberate boycotting the World Cup. Göttlich referenced the justifications for the boycotts of the 1980s Olympic Games, emphasizing that the potential threats now could be even more severe.
Political Reactions
- Piers Morgan, a TV commentator, suggested that several European nations consider pausing participation in the World Cup.
- Members of the UK Parliament, both Conservative and Labor, have also indicated support for a boycott.
In contrast, France’s sports minister, Marina Ferrari, has stated that the country does not intend to withdraw. She emphasized the importance of sports, arguing that the World Cup is a vital event for sports enthusiasts.
Ongoing Discussions
The discussions around a potential boycott of the World Cup continue to evolve. Various voices in the political and sporting communities advocate for caution regarding attending this major event hosted in the United States. The coming months will be crucial as opinions develop further ahead of the tournament.
