Boston's Leader Michelle Wu Counters Trump's Warning to Relocate FIFA World Cup Games from Boston

Boston's mayor, Mayor Wu, suggested that the city was prepared for a confrontation with US President Donald Trump concerning his assertion that he could instruct FIFA to relocate World Cup games from Gillette Stadium, situated approximately 35 kilometers south-west of the city.

Mayor Wu spoke on a local podcast recently to respond to comments from the Trump administration, which had labeled her as "far-left." Trump had threatened that he would contact FIFA President Gianni Infantino if Boston did not "address its issues."

Much of it is secured by agreement so that no one, even if they live in the White House, can change it.

She continued, "We're in a world where for attention, for power, to test limits ... ongoing threats ... are issued at people and cities who refuse to back down and comply or follow along to a divisive plan."

She also remarked, "We are going to continue being ourselves, and that means, unfortunately, we are going to be part of a discussion that is targeting Boston's values." She finished by stressing her commitment for the city, declaring, "Ten toes down for Boston."

Trump's Comments and FIFA's Role

Recently, Infantino was photographed with Trump at the international summit in Egypt. Infantino has also visited the Oval Office and given World Cup tournament and Club World Cup trophies to Trump as presents.

On Tuesday, President Trump was questioned on unrest in South Boston that included a police vehicle being set on fire. Trump replied, "If things aren't handled well, and if I feel there's unsafe conditions, I would call Gianni – the president of the organization, who's great."

He added, "I would say: 'We should relocate the games' and they would do that. He might not prefer it. But he would do it without hesitation." The president also specifically targeted Wu, saying, "Their mayor is not good ... she's far-left, and they're taking over parts of Boston. That's a strong claim, right?"

Previous Threats and 2026 World Cup Details

Trump has previously suggested that he would have the same conversation with the FIFA president about relocating games from Seattle and San Francisco, which are part of the 16 host cities across North America.

The US is co-hosting the 2026 World Cup with neighboring countries. The expanded tournament is scheduled to be held from 11 June to July 19 next summer.