Trump suggests moving 2026 World Cup games; Atlanta one of host cities

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FILE - Former US President Donald Trump boards Air Force One before departing Harlingen, Texas on Jan. 12, 2021. (MANDEL NGAN/AFP via Getty Images)

ATLANTA - President Donald Trump suggested last week that next year’s FIFA World Cup matches in the United States could be moved if he believes host cities are unsafe.

What we know:

Eleven U.S. cities, including Atlanta, are scheduled to host matches in 2026.

Trump told reporters he would relocate games if crime concerns arise, though experts say contracts with FIFA make such a move unlikely.

"Any city we think is going to be a little bit dangerous for the World Cup – or for the Olympics – you know, where they have Olympic overthrow, but for the World Cup, in particular, because they’re playing in so many cities, we won’t allow it to go, we’ll move it around a little bit," said Trump.

STORY: US World Cup host cities could be changed if it's too dangerous, Trump says

The World Cup will feature dozens of the world's best club soccer teams. Other host cities in the U.S. include Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, New York/New Jersey, Philadelphia, San Francisco and Seattle.

FIFA World Cup 2026 match schedule

Cities across the United States have spent years — and millions of dollars — preparing to welcome thousands of soccer fans for the upcoming World Cup.

In Atlanta, the effort has reshaped parts of the city, with projects such as The Gulch redevelopment and upgrades to public transportation tied directly to the tournament.

The World Cup kicks off on June 11 in Mexico City. Atlanta will host Match 14 on June 15; Match 25 on June 18; Match 38 on June 21; Match 50 on June 24; Match 72 on June 27; Match 80 on July 1; Match 95 on July 7; and the semi-final (Match 102) on July 15.

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