Trump says he’ll move World Cup out of Seattle if problems arise
Nov 17, 2025, 9:56 PM | Updated: Nov 18, 2025, 6:40 am
U.S. President Donald Trump delivers remarks during a meeting of the White House Task Force on the FIFA World Cup 2026 in the Oval Office of the White House on November 17, 2025 in Washington, DC. (Photo: Win McNamee, Getty Images)
(Photo: Win McNamee, Getty Images)
President Donald Trump said he’s got his eyes on Seattle and its incoming mayor ahead of next year’s World Cup.
He was asked about public safety in the city, and the president threatened to pull the games from Seattle.
“If we think there’s going to be a problem, Johnny, can I say we will move? I don’t think you’re going to have this problem, but we’re going to move the event to someplace where it’s going to be appreciated and safe,” Trump said.
The president was speaking from the Oval Office Monday, alongside the president of FIFA.
“I think safety and security is the number one priority for a successful World Cup,” FIFA President Gianni Infantino said.
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Infantino said record-breaking ticket sales show soccer fans are not worried, saying they “have trust in the United States.” Seattle is set to host six World Cup matches.
During the news conference, Trump also had some thoughts on Seattle’s mayor-elect, Katie Wilson.
“Liberal slash communist mayor, I would say certainly beyond just liberal. I watched her over the weekend. Wow, that’s another beauty we got there,” he said.
KIRO Newsradio reached out to Wilson for comment.
