Boston earned its place on the world stage. Now, former President Donald Trump is threatening to take it away.

In a recent press conference, Trump said he would call FIFA and ask them to move the 2026 World Cup games out of Greater Boston if he believes the city isn’t “safe.” He made similar threats about other host cities, claiming FIFA President Gianni Infantino would “very easily” agree to relocate the matches.

Trump has no official authority to move the games — but that doesn’t mean the threat is empty. When a former U.S. president publicly pressures a global sports body, it creates uncertainty, media chaos, and political friction that could jeopardize years of planning.

Boston’s World Cup bid wasn’t handed over lightly. Our city spent years securing its host status. Local leaders, community groups, small businesses, and fans worked together to win this opportunity — and the region is already investing millions to make it a success. Hotels are booked. Tickets are sold out. The world is watching.

This isn’t about politics. It’s about pride, planning, and global participation. The World Cup belongs to the people — not to any politician with a grudge.

We call on FIFA President Gianni Infantino and the 2026 World Cup Organizing Committee to publicly reject any political pressure to move the games from Boston. The decision to award host cities was based on merit, infrastructure, and community readiness — not headlines.

Add your name if you agree that Boston deserves to keep its games, and that no former president should be allowed to hijack one of the biggest sporting events in the world for political points.

Boston won this moment. Let’s defend it.