Concerns Over US Military Moves
A group of cross-party UK MPs has urged FIFA to consider barring the United States from the World Cup unless it demonstrates “clear compliance with international law and respect for the sovereignty of other nations.” The call comes in the wake of a US raid in Caracas this month that led to the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, alongside warnings from former President Donald Trump about potential military operations in several other countries, including Colombia, Greenland, and Mexico.
The MPs argue that international sporting events “should not be used to legitimise or normalise violations of international law by powerful states.” Their motion highlights repeated US threats and interventions, describing them as undermining the global rules-based order. While the US government frames its actions as law-enforcement operations against criminal regimes, critics—including UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres—have expressed concern about violations of international law.
FIFA and the Politics of Hosting
FIFA has so far declined to comment on the MPs’ motion. The governing body previously awarded Trump its inaugural Peace Prize in December 2025, citing his efforts in Middle East diplomacy. Critics say FIFA is unlikely to take action against a host nation responsible for the majority of World Cup matches, particularly given the close relationship between FIFA President Gianni Infantino and Trump.
Observers note that FIFA has faced similar dilemmas before, such as hosting the 2018 World Cup in Russia despite political controversies, and the later banning of Russian teams following the invasion of Ukraine. MPs like Brian Leishman argue for consistency, saying the US actions in Venezuela should be treated similarly to Russia’s breach of international law.
Olympics and the Limits of Sporting Governance
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) also maintains strict neutrality on political issues, even as it continues to ban Russian teams while allowing athletes to compete as neutrals. The IOC has confirmed it will not exclude American athletes from the 2026 World Cup or the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, emphasizing that political conflicts are outside its remit. Officials say the focus of global sport should remain on bringing athletes together, regardless of national politics, while leaving international disputes to governments and diplomatic channels.
