Trump Suggests Russia’s Participation in 2026 World Cup Could Incentivize Peace in Ukraine
In a surprising statement during the inaugural meeting of his administration’s 2026 World Cup taskforce, US President Donald Trump proposed that allowing Russia to participate in the upcoming World Cup could serve as an “incentive” to end the ongoing war in Ukraine. This remark comes against the backdrop of FIFA and UEFA’s ban on the Russian national football team, which has been in place since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
The 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico, is set to begin its qualification rounds, with 45 spots available alongside the three host nations. However, under current regulations, Russia is not eligible to compete.
During the meeting, Trump, seated next to FIFA President Gianni Infantino, appeared unaware of Russia’s ban. “I didn’t know that. Is that right?” he asked Infantino, who confirmed the ban. Trump then suggested that reinstating Russia could be a pathway to peace, stating, “That’s possible. Hey, that could be a good incentive, right? We want to get them to stop. Five thousand young people a week are being killed—it’s not even believable.”
While Trump emphasized the importance of peace, he clarified that any decision regarding Russia’s participation would ultimately rest with Infantino and FIFA, asserting he had “nothing to do” with any potential reinstatement.
The meeting also featured remarks from US Vice President JD Vance, who expressed enthusiasm for welcoming international fans to the tournament. However, he also stressed that all visitors would need to return home after the event, highlighting concerns about immigration policies and potential disruptions to international arrivals.
As preparations for the World Cup ramp up, the Department of Homeland Security is already processing travel documents and visa applications for the expected influx of around two million overseas visitors.
With the tournament just around the corner, the discussions surrounding Russia’s status and the broader political implications of the event are sure to continue as stakeholders navigate the complexities of international relations in the world of sports.
