Trump says pro-Palestine protests allowed during 2026 FIFA World Cup

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: News websites
8 May 2025 17:31

US President Donald Trump confirms that pro-Palestine protests will be permitted during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico.

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FIFA President Gianni Infantino (R) speaks during a meeting with US President Donald Trump of the White House Task Force on the FIFA World Cup 2026 in the East Room of the White House in Washington, DC, on May 6, 2025 (AFP)

US President Donald Trump announced that pro-Palestine protests will be permitted during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico, the Middle East Monitor news website reported.

The statement was made during a joint press conference with FIFA President Gianni Infantino at the White House on Wednesday.

When asked about the possibility of political demonstrations during the global tournament, Trump affirmed the right to protest, provided it remains orderly.

“I think people are allowed to protest. You have to do it in a reasonable manner — not necessarily friendly, but reasonable,” said the US president.

The announcement directly addresses growing speculation that pro-Palestine protests could occur during the tournament, especially amid rising global solidarity movements for Palestine and the ongoing Israeli war on the Gaza Strip.

"Israel" has killed more than 52,000 Palestinians and injured more than 119,000 others since October 7, 2023.

But since assuming office, the Trump administration has cracked down on pro-Palestine residents in the United States under the pretext of combating "anti-Semitism", detaining several and ordering their deportation for allegedly "supporting terrorism".

FIFA president joins Trump at White House

FIFA President Gianni Infantino appeared alongside Trump during the press briefing, reinforcing coordination efforts between FIFA and the host nations ahead of the highly anticipated tournament.

The 2026 edition of the FIFA World Cup marks the first time the event will be hosted across three countries in North America.

Millions expected to attend World Cup

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will take place from June 11 to July 19, with matches scheduled across multiple cities in the US, Canada, and Mexico.

Organizers expect more than 8 million football fans to travel to the region for the tournament, making it one of the most attended sporting events in history.