Trump’s 2026 World Cup won’t be a tournament for fans

The 2026 World Cup is facing a unique challenge as political tensions cast a shadow over the event. US President Donald Trump has drawn sharp criticism from many, including German fans, who are divided about attending matches in the host nations. While some are making plans to travel, others are hesitant, reflecting the broader unease surrounding the tournament.

On the final international break before the 2026 World Cup, Germany’s team takes on Ghana in March. Fans like Dennis and Kai, both from northern Germany, are already preparing for the event. The Stuttgart-bound train is already packed, with supporters donning Germany’s kits at every stop, creating a lively atmosphere of talk and anticipation.

“Wearing the eagle on your chest and singing the national anthem is something special,” Dennis shared with DW. “You always meet up with other fans, travel to tournaments – it always gives you goosebumps.”

These two are considered regulars, fans who consistently attend every match, regardless of location. Their excitement for the upcoming World Cup is palpable, and they’ve already secured tickets for the group stage. “I want to soak up everything that’s going on in the cities,” Kai said, his eyes gleaming. “Dennis has always talked so much about it.”

For Dennis, the journey began in 2015, and he’s attended nearly every game since. Kai’s loyalty started during Euro 2024, when Germany hosted the tournament. Despite the political climate in the USA, their enthusiasm remains undimmed. “Politics should really stay out of sport,” Dennis remarked. “Sport is meant to build bridges and bring people together, but politics often likes to exploit tournaments like this.”

Political Concerns

However, not all fans share this optimism. Former Germany coach Joachim Löw has voiced concerns about the political environment in North America. “We had debates even before the 2018 World Cup in Russia, and calls for a boycott ahead of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar,” Löw noted at an event in Cologne. “But playing in a country that is currently actively at war is even more dangerous.”

Löw’s remarks highlight the impact of Trump’s policies, including recent military actions against Iran and ongoing immigration operations by ICE. The political situation, he argues, is “completely overshadowing the tournament.” This sentiment echoes among critics like Boris Mijatovic, a Green Party politician and human rights advocate. “What FIFA is organising there together with Donald Trump is not something that makes my heart beat faster,” Mijatovic told DW. “The disclosure of personal data, such as email addresses, mobile phones, computers or social media accounts, should not be ignored. These are all infringements on personal freedom that I would not tolerate.”

Mijatovic also pointed to the symbolic gestures, such as FIFA President Gianni Infantino awarding the newly created FIFA Peace Prize to Trump during the draw. “I find it utterly grotesque the way one has to pay homage to this president to win his favor,” he said. “This applies just as much to Gianni Infantino as it does to (German) Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and even Bernd Neuendorf, the DFB President, is included in my criticism.”

Mijatovic laments the lack of boldness in voicing dissent against FIFA. “I miss that stance,” he added. “What we once built, with respect and fair play, has gone down the drain.”

A Fan’s Dilemma

For Germany fan Bengt Kunkel, the 2026 World Cup will be a remote experience. Having worked tirelessly to create a vibrant atmosphere at national team matches, he’s choosing to watch the event from home. “I take a very critical view of the World Cup,” Kunkel said. “Trump’s presence has made me rethink whether it’s worth the trip.”