FIFA President Calls United States “Number One Country in the Whole World” in Rally Appearance with President Trump
At a pre-inauguration rally on January 19, 2025, FIFA President Gianni Infantino sparked excitement by praising the United States as “the number one country in the entire world.” This moment, shared widely online, underscores the strengthening ties between FIFA and the incoming Trump administration. Infantino’s endorsement coincided with Trump’s remarks on the U.S. growing influence in hosting international sporting events. “So I am going to be your President for the Olympics and for the World Cup,” Trump declared. His comments reflected confidence and enthusiasm about what is to come.
Warm Relations with a Purpose
Infantino’s appearance at the rally was not merely ceremonial. His words carried weight, indicating a strategic alliance between FIFA and the U.S. government. The U.S. is set to host the FIFA Club World Cup in 2025 and co-host the 2026 FIFA World Cup alongside Canada and Mexico—an event expected to feature 48 national teams, the largest in the tournament’s history. Infantino said, “What an incredible honor, what an incredible privilege,” while expressing his excitement about these upcoming events and asserting FIFA’s respect towards the U.S.
As soccer gains popularity in the U.S., Infantino’s relationships with events hosted by Trump indicate a significant diplomatic partnership. The decision to relocate the 2026 World Cup draw to Washington, D.C., suggests a deliberate coordination between FIFA and the Trump administration.
Political Dimensions
Infantino’s praise has drawn critics who question the FIFA President’s political neutrality. They argue that his attendance at political rallies blurs the lines between sports and politics. Infantino, undeterred by these concerns, remarked, “He does things. He does what he says,” highlighting Trump’s effective leadership style as he sees it.
The context behind Infantino’s gratitude is noteworthy. Trump’s commitment to FIFA projects, including support for the 2026 World Cup bid, has been clear. Reports suggest that FIFA leaders lobbied the Trump administration to back North America’s bid, emphasizing the complex dance between public relations and political favor. Leaked emails from FIFA hinted at a plan to highlight allegiance to Trump, raising questions about the integrity of the bidding procedures.
Fueling Major Global Events
Despite the scrutiny, the tangible results of this alliance are significant. The upcoming FIFA Club World Cup and 2026 World Cup are monumental events on a global scale. Hosting the 2026 tournament is projected to generate over $5 billion in economic activity and create roughly 40,000 jobs across the host nations, with the U.S. as the political and logistical nucleus.
Trump emphasized America’s pivotal role in these events, stating, “Everybody wants to be part of what’s happening in the United States.” The sentiment highlights America’s strategic and symbolic importance in global sports.
Introducing “FIFA Pass”
The Trump administration has also rolled out the “FIFA Pass,” a new visa facilitation program to assist foreign spectators attending the World Cup. This program aims to streamline entry for international fans, enhancing engagement from nations where soccer is a way of life. The administration claims this initiative will reduce wait times at embassies and consulates while maintaining security measures, marrying the dual goals of accessibility and safety.
Potential Flashpoints Abroad
While building ties with FIFA, Trump has also made headlines with controversial statements regarding military intervention to combat drug trafficking. Trump’s comments about conducting military strikes show a willingness to adopt aggressive tactics. He stated, “Would I launch strikes on Mexico to stop drugs? It’s OK with me.” He maintains that such actions could prevent loss of life, emphasizing a resolve to tackle threats directly.
This juxtaposition—FIFA’s commitment to global unity and Trump’s readiness for confrontation—highlights a complex relationship. The emerging alliance mixes the realm of sports diplomacy with proactive, sometimes forceful, foreign policies.
Balancing Optics and Objectives
Infantino’s consistent appearances at Trump events indicate that the upcoming World Cup in 2026 will be more than just a sporting event; it will be a significant political milestone. The event aims not only to showcase sports but also to frame it as a national achievement. As Trump’s team, including figures like Andrew Giuliani, leads World Cup preparations, they seek to position the tournament as a testament to American leadership.
The rally where Infantino proclaimed the U.S. as “the number one country in the entire world” represents more than a soundbite; it encapsulates a carefully orchestrated political strategy that intertwines sports and governance. As preparations ramp up for major upcoming international competitions, the partnership between FIFA and the U.S. government under Trump will critically influence policies affecting global travel, infrastructure investment, and international relations.
As the United States gets ready to host back-to-back global events—the FIFA Club World Cup followed by the 2026 World Cup and the Olympics—Infantino’s endorsement may signify a deeper endorsement of Trump’s leadership. How this partnership will affect both sports and geopolitics remains to be seen.
"*" indicates required fields
