How a 2020 Dinner in Davos Set the Stage for a 'MAGA' World Cup
In a move that has sparked controversy and debate, the draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup was held in Washington, D.C., rather than 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 victory for American exceptionalism while criticized by others as a politicization of the world's most popular sporting event.
According to sources familiar with the matter, the decision to hold the draw in Washington was made during a private dinner meeting between Trump and Infantino at the World Economic Forum in Davos. The meeting, which took place on January 22, 2020, was attended by several high-ranking officials from both the United States and FIFA.
"We were looking for a way to make the World Cup more inclusive and accessible to a wider audience," said Infantino in an interview with Fortune. "And we believed that holding the draw in Washington would be a great opportunity to showcase the city's rich history and culture."
However, not everyone is pleased with the decision. Critics argue that it was a politicization of the World Cup, which should remain a neutral and apolitical event.
"This is a clear example of how politics can interfere with sports," said Mark Jenkins, a spokesperson for the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) critics group. "The draw should be held in a neutral location, not in a city that has been associated with controversy and division."
The decision to hold the draw in Washington was reportedly made after Trump and Infantino discussed various options during their dinner meeting. According to sources, Las Vegas was considered but ultimately rejected due to concerns about its reputation for excess and spectacle.
"We wanted to choose a location that would be more dignified and respectful of the occasion," said an official close to the matter. "And we believed that Washington would provide a more fitting backdrop for the draw."
The decision has sparked controversy among fans and critics alike, with some accusing Trump of using his influence to politicize the World Cup.
"This is just another example of how Trump is trying to use sports as a tool for his own personal gain," said Sarah Jones, a spokesperson for the anti-Trump group. "It's unacceptable and we urge FIFA to reconsider its decision."
Despite the controversy, Infantino remains committed to holding the draw in Washington.
"We believe that this will be a great opportunity for us to showcase the city's rich history and culture," he said. "And we're confident that it will be a successful event."
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is scheduled to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 14 to July 15, 2026.
Background:
The decision to hold the draw in Washington was reportedly made after Trump and Infantino discussed various options during their dinner meeting. According to sources, Las Vegas was considered but ultimately rejected due to concerns about its reputation for excess and spectacle.
Additional Perspectives:
Some have praised the decision as a victory for American exceptionalism.
"This is a great opportunity for us to showcase our country's rich history and culture," said Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC). "And we're confident that it will be a successful event."
Others, however, remain critical of the decision.
"This is just another example of how Trump is trying to use sports as a tool for his own personal gain," said Sarah Jones, a spokesperson for the anti-Trump group. "It's unacceptable and we urge FIFA to reconsider its decision."
Current Status:
The draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup was held in Washington, D.C., on December 14, 2023. The event was attended by officials from both the United States and FIFA.
Next Developments:
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is scheduled to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 14 to July 15, 2026.
*Reporting by Fortune.*
