Trump suggests Russia’s 2026 World Cup inclusion could be used as peace incentive

The U.S. President Donald Trump has stirred controversy by suggesting that allowing Russia to participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup might serve as a diplomatic incentive to help end the ongoing war in Ukraine.

Trump made the remarks during the inaugural meeting of his administration’s 2026 World Cup taskforce. The tournament is set to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Russia has been banned from international football competitions by FIFA and UEFA since its 2022 invasion of Ukraine. As a result, the Russian national team is currently barred from competing in the 2026 World Cup.

Trump, who admitted he was unaware of the ban, floated the idea that reinstating Russia could be part of broader peace efforts.

He was quick to note, however, that the decision rests solely with FIFA President Gianni Infantino and that he had no direct influence over any potential reversal.