Several Countries Targeted by the US
The US President’s threats also extended to fellow World Cup host Mexico. He and his team have indicated that they are considering action there, among several other countries in the region. While no direct threats are being made, Mexican lawmakers will be wary of dealing with their neighbors to the North.
The controversial leader has also been aggressive in his bid to take Greenland away from Denmark. The Dutch have overseen the self-governing territory, but the President insists the US needs the island for “national security.” Denmark’s national team is currently in the European playoffs, attempting to qualify for this summer’s tournament.
FIFA Unlikely to Act, but Teams Might
It seems FIFA is willing to do whatever is needed to ensure this summer’s tournament happens. They have been unwilling to stand against the US, instead handing the President a “Peace Prize” last year. That has not been expected to elicit a reaction from FIFA, but that may not matter.
If the World Cup doesn’t happen, it will likely be because of the countries involved. A coordinated boycott is possible, especially if the conflict over Greenland escalates. Taking a territory so close to Europe could lead them to keep their teams home, dealing a death blow to the tournament.
Money Talks
While morals are at the center of the debate over the World Cup, it's important to remember the money already spent.
Sponsors have written massive checks in exchange for the international exposure the tournament provides. They won’t be happy to see the tournament lose key teams or be canceled altogether, and have the connections to do something about it.
There is also the sports betting industry, which was projecting massive revenue numbers for the largest World Cup in history. Soccer betting sites have signed deals to advertise in and around matches, and prediction markets aren’t far behind.
With all the money already spent on the 2026 World Cup, hope remains that we will have the tournament we all want this summer.
