Joining the discussion are Adam Crafton, an insightful reporter from The Athletic, and Felipe Cardenas, who offers a unique Atlanta perspective. They delve into how Donald Trump’s presidency may sway football's trajectory in the U.S., particularly with major tournaments on the horizon. Key topics include Trump's ties with FIFA president Gianni Infantino and the potential effects of his policies on women's sports. They also explore the implications of U.S. immigration policies on youth soccer development and the overall football landscape.
Trump's presidency may influence the financial landscape of major football events like the 2026 World Cup, rather than the sport's overall growth.
The evolving dynamics between Trump's policies and women's sports highlight ongoing tensions regarding gender equity and representation in athletics.
Deep dives
Impact of Donald Trump's Presidency on Upcoming Football Tournaments
The potential influence of Donald Trump on major football events, particularly the FIFA Club World Cup and the 2026 Men's World Cup, raises questions regarding the intersection of sports and politics. Observers express uncertainty about Trump's direct impact, noting that while football is popular within certain circles, it has yet to reach mainstream appeal in the U.S. Trump's history of leveraging profitable opportunities, particularly through his unique business approach, suggests that any involvement may center around financial gain rather than promoting the sport itself. As such, his presidency may ultimately only serve as a backdrop for these tournaments rather than a driving force behind their success.
Women's Sports and the Trump Administration
The interaction between Donald Trump's policies and women's sports has evolved in a complex manner, especially in light of the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) and ongoing discussions about equity and gender in athletics. Trump's previous focus on the U.S. Women's National Team during their 2019 World Cup success indicates an inconsistent approach, characterized by confrontational exchanges, particularly with star player Megan Rapinoe. Moreover, ongoing tensions regarding trans player participation in women's sports add further complexity as the NWSL grapples with potential policy changes that could affect its future. The response from the league to such events will likely reflect both its commitment to its values and the broader societal questions surrounding women's rights during Trump's tenure.
Geopolitical Tensions and Soccer Rivalries
The geopolitical landscape between the U.S. and Mexico adds another layer of complexity to the 2026 World Cup, particularly given the heightened tensions surrounding immigration and border policies. The enduring rivalry in football between the countries is exacerbated by the current political climate, which could potentially manifest both on and off the pitch during World Cup events. With significant populations of Mexican-Americans residing in the U.S., the 2026 tournament serves as a potential flashpoint for issues stemming from ongoing political disputes. Key matchups in soccer could spark renewed national scrutiny, highlighting the intersection of sport, politics, and identity during a contentious presidential term.
MLS Growth and the Future of American Soccer
While the 2026 World Cup presents an opportunity for soccer's growth in the U.S., there are significant challenges facing Major League Soccer (MLS). The league struggles with media visibility and accessibility, which limits its ability to attract broader viewership outside local markets, thus questioning its potential to break into mainstream American sports culture. Compounded by high participation costs, which deter young athletes from lower-income backgrounds, the long-term sustainability of soccer's growth is uncertain. Ultimately, while the World Cup may generate short-term excitement and financial gain, the lasting impact on American soccer's development and integration into the sports landscape remains to be seen.
Among the tech billionaires, cabinet nominees and former leaders as Donald Trump was sworn in as U.S. president was the most powerful man in football - FIFA president Gianni Infantino….
So, with both the Club World Cup and World Cup taking place in the USA in the next 18 months.
What impact will Trump and his policies have on football over the next four years?
Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Adam Crafton in New York, Felipe Cardenas in Atlanta and Women's Sports Lead, in Burlington, Vermont, Meg Linehan to analyse and debate Trump's role in football, relationship with Infantino as well as assess what his legacy on the sport could be at the end of his time in office.
Host: Ayo Akinwolere
With: Adam Crafton, Felipe Cardenas and Meg Linehan