The 2026 FIFA World Cup isn't even here yet, but Donald Trump is already making seismic demands for the 2038 edition! The former US President has made an urgent, public request to FIFA and President Gianni Infantino, insisting that the United States must once again host football's showpiece event.
Trump’s enthusiasm, fueled by the upcoming multi-national 2026 World Cup – co-hosted by the US, Mexico, and Canada – is palpable. He declared the tournament one of the greatest sporting spectacles ever and clearly wants a repeat sooner rather than later.
Key Points:
- Donald Trump has formally requested the US host the 2038 FIFA World Cup.
- FIFA regulations on host confederations make North America a strong favorite.
- Trump openly challenged Gianni Infantino to make it happen while he's still alive.
- The former President has a history of influencing FIFA decisions, as seen with the Folarin Balogun controversy.
Trump's Bold Play for World Cup 2038
Speaking with FOX Sports at the recent World Cup final, Donald Trump didn't mince words. "Based on the numbers, we will be requesting it immediately," he stated. "We have to do this again, and we have to do it while I'm around. You hear that, Gianni?"
This isn't just wishful thinking; it's a direct challenge to FIFA's top brass. The former President's conviction stems from the perceived success and impact of the upcoming 2026 tournament.
FIFA's Rulebook Paves the Way for a US Return
While the official 2038 World Cup host announcement is still years away, FIFA's own regulations set a clear path. The rules state that a confederation cannot host two consecutive World Cups, effectively rotating the tournament across the globe.
- The 2030 World Cup will be held across Morocco, Spain, and Portugal, with symbolic matches in South America.
- The 2034 World Cup is set for Saudi Arabia in Asia.
This means that Europe, South America, Africa, and Asia are all technically ineligible for 2038. This leaves only CONCACAF (North America) and Oceania in contention.
The Road to 2038: A Clear Path for North America
Given the significant infrastructure and passion for soccer already present in the United States, the nation emerges as the overwhelming favorite. Trump's ambition, combined with FIFA's own rotational rules, positions the US for a potentially swift return to global football's biggest stage.
Trump's Controversial Influence: The Balogun Affair
It's worth noting that Donald Trump's influence over FIFA extends beyond mere requests. His close relationship with Gianni Infantino was reportedly on display earlier in the competition.
During a prior tournament, Trump allegedly intervened to overturn a one-match suspension for USMNT striker Folarin Balogun. Balogun had received a red card, but his suspension was subsequently revoked, sparking widespread outrage and accusations of FIFA bending its own rules under political pressure. This precedent highlights Trump's unique ability to sway major sporting decisions.
What This Means for US Soccer
A 2038 World Cup in the United States would be an unprecedented achievement, marking a quick turnaround from the 2026 hosting duties. It would further solidify soccer's growing presence in America and provide another massive boost to the sport's development at all levels. With Trump leading the charge, it seems the US might just pull off this extraordinary feat.
