FIFA deepens ties with Trump by opening office in Trump Tower
- FIFA has opened a new office in Trump Tower, enhancing its presence in the United States ahead of the World Cup.
- The office opening coincides with Trump chairing a White House task force for the 2026 World Cup, raising financial and ethical questions.
- This partnership has attracted criticism due to Trump's immigration policies and FIFA's controversial history, reflecting concerns within the soccer community.
In recent months, FIFA established a new office in Trump Tower, signaling a close collaboration between the international soccer organization and United States President Donald Trump ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The move comes as Trump appointed himself chairman of a White House task force aimed at overseeing the event, which will see participation from 48 nations across multiple cities in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed gratitude for the support received from the Trump administration, emphasizing their shared interests in promoting soccer in the United States. However, this partnership has drawn criticism amidst Trump's controversial immigration policies and past business practices. The combination of FIFA's establishment within Trump Tower and a shared financial interest further cements a controversial relationship. FIFA has faced scrutiny regarding its associations and governance, similar to issues that have surrounded the Trump Organization. These overlapping histories have amplified public backlash against both organizations, particularly among soccer fans concerned about the implications of such connections. Delegates from UEFA, Europe's soccer governing body, expressed their displeasure by walking out of a session where Infantino praised Trump at an investment forum, indicative of the tense climate surrounding FIFA's partnerships. The anticipation for the World Cup has been mixed as FIFA gears up to host the prestigious event in 2026. Formerly, Trump had shown significant interest in securing the World Cup for the U.S., a venture that now seems intertwined with his administration’s influence. Recent legislation has allocated federal funds toward World Cup security, further intertwining governmental support and soccer administration in the U.S. The rising number of teams, increased by expansion efforts, and the financial compensation involved in hosting the World Cup are expected to raise FIFA's profile significantly, underscoring the global interest in soccer. As FIFA continues to bolster its presence in the U.S., starting with its office in Trump Tower, the organization and its leaders will need to navigate the complex landscape of political affiliation and public perception. The ongoing scrutiny surrounding their collaborative efforts and the implications of governance on both fronts raise concerns over transparency and accountability. As the World Cup approaches, the relationship between FIFA and the Trump administration will likely remain a focal point, eliciting reactions from both soccer enthusiasts and political observers globally.