Boston Mayor Michelle Wu Responds to Trump's Warning to Relocate FIFA World Cup Games from City

Boston's mayor, Michelle Wu, implied that the municipality was prepared for a face-off with US President Donald Trump regarding his claim that he could instruct FIFA to relocate World Cup matches from Gillette Stadium, situated 22 miles south-west of the city.

Wu appeared on a Boston-based podcast recently to address criticism from the Trump administration, which had labeled her as "far-left." President Trump had warned that he would contact FIFA President Gianni Infantino if Boston did not "address its issues."

Much of it is locked down by contract so that no single person, even the president, can reverse it.

Wu added, "We're in a world where for attention, for control, to test limits ... repeated warnings ... are directed at people and cities who refuse to back down and submit or be obedient to a divisive plan."

Mayor Wu further stated, "We will keep being who we are, and that means, sadly, we are going to be part of a discussion that is targeting Boston's values." Wu finished by stressing her commitment for the Boston, saying, "Ten toes down for Boston."

The President's Comments and FIFA's Involvement

Earlier this week, Infantino was photographed alongside President Trump at the international summit in Egypt. Infantino has also been to the Oval Office and given World Cup tournament and club championship awards to Trump as gifts.

On Tuesday, Trump was asked about recent disturbances in South Boston that involved a police car being set on fire. Trump responded, "If somebody is doing a bad job, and if I feel there's unsafe conditions, I would call Gianni – the president of FIFA, who's great."

Trump added, "I would say: 'We should relocate the games' and they would comply. He wouldn't love to do it. But he would do it without hesitation." The president also specifically targeted Mayor Wu, saying, "Boston's mayor is ineffective ... she's far-left, and they're dominating some areas in Boston. That's a strong claim, right?"

Previous Threats and Upcoming Tournament Information

President Trump has made previous comments that he would have the similar discussion with Infantino about relocating matches from other host cities, which are among the 16 host cities across the continent.

The United States is co-hosting the 2026 World Cup with Mexico and Canada. The 48-team event is planned to be held from June 11 to July 19 in the coming year.