FIFA Opens Office at Trump Tower Ahead of World Cup

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FIFA Opens Office at Trump Tower Ahead of World Cup/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ FIFA has opened an office in New York’s Trump Tower as it strengthens ties with President Trump ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Gianni Infantino thanked Trump and his son Eric for their support. The move stirs controversy amid concerns over U.S. immigration policies affecting fans.

President Donald Trump, from left, holds the new FIFA Club World Cup official ball as FIFA President Gianni Infantino and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem watch in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, Friday, March 7, 2025. (Pool via AP)

FIFA Trump Tower Office Quick Looks

FIFA opens office in Trump Tower, New York
Expansion comes ahead of 2026 North American World Cup
Infantino praises Trump as “big fan of soccer”
Club World Cup trophy displayed at Trump Tower
Human Rights Watch raises concerns over border policies
Infantino dismisses fears of immigration issues for fans
White House pledges secure and welcoming World Cup
Trump carves out exemptions for athletes amid travel bans

FILE —Trump Tower is shown in this photo, in New York, March 21, 2023. New York Judge Arthur Engoron, ruling in a civil lawsuit brought by New York Attorney General Letitia James, found that Trump and his company deceived banks, insurers and others by massively overvaluing his assets and exaggerating his net worth on paperwork used in making deals and securing loans. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig, File)

Deep Look

FIFA Opens Office in Trump Tower, Strengthening Ties With President Trump Ahead of 2026 World Cup

NEW YORK — World football’s governing body FIFA has deepened its connection with U.S. President Donald Trump by opening a new office in Trump Tower, a move announced Tuesday that cements the organization’s American footprint just a year ahead of the 2026 men’s World Cup hosted across North America.

The opening comes on the heels of FIFA establishing another U.S. office in Miami last year, reflecting the global body’s strategic push to enhance its presence in key American markets as it prepares for the largest World Cup in history.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed gratitude toward Trump, describing him as “a big fan of soccer,” and thanked the president’s son, Eric Trump, for their “big support” during remarks at the new office’s unveiling.

Club World Cup Trophy Displayed at Trump Tower

Eric Trump joined Infantino and Brazilian football legend Ronaldo for the event, revealing that the Club World Cup trophy will be on public display at Trump Tower until Sunday, when the competition concludes at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

Infantino has made multiple trips to both the White House and Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida this year, seeking to cultivate a relationship aimed at ensuring the 2026 World Cup’s success despite the political turbulence surrounding Trump’s administration.

Human Rights Concerns Shadow FIFA’s Move

However, FIFA’s tightening relationship with the Trump administration has sparked criticism, particularly from human rights organizations concerned about how U.S. immigration policies might impact fans and players traveling for the World Cup.

In May, Human Rights Watch voiced “grave concerns” about the administration’s border policies, warning they could hinder free travel for supporters and potentially compromise the safety of players and fans. The organization even urged Infantino to “be prepared to reconsider the hosting decision” if those risks couldn’t be mitigated, according to a letter obtained by POLITICO.

Despite these warnings, Infantino has publicly dismissed fears that the U.S. government’s strict border controls would disrupt the tournament, maintaining confidence that all visitors will be able to attend safely.

White House Promises Secure and Welcoming Event

‘Andrew Giuliani, who leads the White House task force on World Cup preparations, told POLITICO last month that the administration is determined to deliver “the largest World Cup in history” in a way that is both “secure and welcoming.”

President Trump has also shown personal interest in facilitating the tournament’s success. Earlier this year, when the administration imposed a travel ban affecting 19 countries, Trump included a specific carveout allowing entry for international athletes, coaches, and support staff participating in the World Cup, Olympics, and other major sporting events.

As FIFA expands its U.S. presence and partners closely with the Trump administration, the organization faces the delicate challenge of balancing sports diplomacy with growing scrutiny over the country’s domestic policies and their potential impact on the global sporting community.