During a recent meeting of the U.S. World Cup 2026 task force, former President Donald Trump proposed that allowing Russia to participate in the upcoming tournament could serve as an incentive to end the ongoing war in Ukraine. He acknowledged the gravity of the conflict and suggested that the re-admission of the Russian national team might help encourage peace negotiations.
Trump clarified that while he supports the idea in principle, the final decision rests with FIFA President Gianni Infantino and the global football community. He stressed that he would not interfere in the governing body’s decision-making process.
Russia has been suspended from international football competitions since February 2022, following its invasion of Ukraine. Both FIFA and UEFA excluded Russian teams from all events, and the European qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup have proceeded without Russian involvement. Under current rules, the entry of a new team into the qualification cycle is not permitted once it has already begun, making Russia’s return for the 2026 edition highly unlikely.
Trump’s comments have reignited debate over the role of sports in diplomacy. While some see sporting events as a potential platform for fostering peace and dialogue, others argue that allowing participation without political resolution could undermine accountability.
As the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, draws nearer, FIFA continues to prioritize unity and fair play. Whether Trump’s proposal gains traction or not, it underscores the broader conversation about how international events can influence — or be influenced by — global politics.
Would you like a shorter version of this for social media or press release use?
