Former FIFA president Sepp Blatter has publicly supported calls for football fans to boycott World Cup matches scheduled to be played in the United States, citing concerns over the conduct of President Donald Trump and his administration at home and abroad.
Blatter, who led world football’s governing body from 1998 until 2015, said the political climate in the United States risks clashing with the values of inclusivity and unity that global football is meant to represent. His comments come amid renewed debate over the United States’ role as a host of major international sporting events.
The United States is set to co-host the 2026 FIFA World Cup alongside Canada and Mexico, with several matches planned for major American cities. While organisers have repeatedly stressed that the tournament is non-political, critics argue that government policies on immigration, foreign relations and civil rights cannot be separated from a global event that attracts millions of visitors and viewers worldwide.
Supporters of the proposed boycott say refusing to attend matches in the US would be a symbolic protest against policies they believe undermine human rights and international cooperation. Others, including football officials and commercial partners, have warned that a boycott would unfairly punish players and fans, while risking significant economic and reputational damage to the tournament.
Blatter’s intervention is notable given his own controversial legacy at FIFA, where his tenure ended following corruption scandals that shook world football. Despite this, his remarks have reignited discussion about the relationship between politics and sport and whether fans should use major tournaments as platforms for protest.
FIFA has not responded directly to Blatter’s comments, maintaining its long-standing position that football should remain politically neutral as preparations for the 2026 World Cup continue.
