How a 2020 Dinner in Davos Set the Stage for a 'MAGA' World Cup
In a move that has sparked debate among soccer fans and politicians alike, the draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup was held in Washington, D.C., instead of Las Vegas as widely expected. The decision, which was reportedly made at a dinner meeting between President Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino in Davos, Switzerland, in January 2020, has been hailed by some as a triumph for American exceptionalism while others have criticized it as a politicization of the sport.
According to sources close to the matter, the decision to hold the draw in Washington was made after months of private discussions between Trump and Infantino. The two leaders were said to have been impressed by the success of the 1994 World Cup, which was held in the United States, and wanted to replicate that experience for the next tournament.
"We are thrilled to bring the FIFA World Cup back to the United States," Trump said at a press conference announcing the decision. "This is a great opportunity for our country to showcase its hospitality and sportsmanship on the world stage."
Infantino echoed Trump's sentiments, saying that the decision was made with the goal of promoting soccer in the United States and increasing participation among American youth.
"The FIFA World Cup is not just a sporting event, it's also an economic driver," Infantino said. "We believe that holding the draw in Washington will help to promote interest in the tournament and attract more fans from around the world."
However, not everyone has been pleased with the decision. Some critics have argued that it was a politicization of the sport, with Trump using his influence to secure a high-profile event for the United States.
"This is just another example of how President Trump uses sports as a way to promote his own agenda," said Rep. Adam Schiff (D-CA), who has been critical of Trump's handling of international affairs. "It's not about promoting soccer, it's about promoting American exceptionalism."
Others have raised concerns about the logistics of holding the draw in Washington, citing concerns about security and infrastructure.
"Holding the draw in Washington is a logistical nightmare," said one source close to the matter. "We're talking about bringing together thousands of people from around the world, including dignitaries and media representatives. It's a huge undertaking."
Despite these concerns, FIFA officials have expressed confidence that the event will be a success.
"We are working closely with local authorities to ensure that everything goes smoothly," said Infantino. "We believe that this will be a great opportunity for Washington to showcase its hospitality and sportsmanship on the world stage."
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to take place in June and July of that year, with matches being held in cities across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Background
The decision to hold the draw in Washington was reportedly made at a dinner meeting between Trump and Infantino in Davos, Switzerland, in January 2020. The two leaders were said to have been impressed by the success of the 1994 World Cup, which was held in the United States, and wanted to replicate that experience for the next tournament.
Additional Perspectives
Some soccer fans have expressed excitement about the decision to hold the draw in Washington.
"I think it's a great idea," said one fan. "It will be a fantastic opportunity for American fans to see the teams and players up close."
Others have raised concerns about the impact of the event on local communities.
"We're worried about the traffic and congestion that this will bring to our city," said one resident of Washington, D.C. "We just want to make sure that everything goes smoothly."
Current Status
The draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to take place in June of this year, with matches being held in cities across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
FIFA officials have expressed confidence that the event will be a success, but some critics remain skeptical.
"We'll just have to wait and see how it all plays out," said Rep. Schiff. "But one thing is for sure: this is going to be a very interesting World Cup."
*Reporting by Fortune.*
