World Cup 2026 host cities say U.S. political situation will impact the tournament
One of the host cities for the 2026 World Cup, Los Angeles, is making headlines for reasons that aren't entirely football-related. The city has been rocked by mass protests against the authorities, who earlier imposed a travel ban on citizens from a dozen countries. Other host cities are also seriously concerned about the tournament.
Details: Meg Kane, Executive Director of the 2026 World Cup organizing committee in Philadelphia, emphasized that the entire system is currently in a state of uncertainty due to geopolitical issues. The true scale of these challenges can't yet be fully understood, but they will undoubtedly have an impact on the tournament.
Quote: "For us, as host cities, it's crucial to recognize that our job is to be ready to welcome anyone who comes to our city and make them feel like a valued guest. Of course, there are processes taking place at both national and international levels. There will be geopolitical challenges that we cannot even foresee right now, and they will impact the tournament next year.
We understand that we're planning under conditions of uncertainty. And one thing we all acknowledge is the need to be able to operate effectively in such circumstances. It's important for each of our cities to be prepared to welcome anyone who decides to come to the U.S. for this World Cup and to ensure they feel welcome here," Kane told The Athletic.
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