Beyond Africa, officials fear Trump’s rhetoric could impact support elsewhereGETTY IMAGES
Outgoing U.S. Soccer President Sunil Gulati, who also serves as Chair for the North American bid seeking to stage the '26 World Cup, said that "political factors are complicating the campaign ahead of FIFA's vote this summer," according to Steven Goff of the WASHINGTON POST. The joint effort of the U.S., Mexico and Canada has been "heavily favored to defeat Morocco for the hosting rights." However, Gulati said, "This will be a tough battle. This is not only about our stadiums and our hotels and all of that. It’s about the perception of America, and it’s a difficult time in the world." Speaking at the United Soccer Coaches convention on Thursday, Gulati implied that President Trump’s policies are "impacting the effort." In recent months, people close to the bid have "grown increasingly concerned about their chances as public opinion around the world has turned against the U.S. government." Even without political issues, Morocco was "sure to secure most, if not all, of the support in Africa, FIFA’s largest bloc with 54 votes, which is just over half of what’s needed to win hosting rights." The African confederation will "meet next month to discuss a unanimous endorsement." Beyond Africa, U.S. soccer officials "fear that Trump’s rhetoric could take a toll on support elsewhere as well" (WASHINGTON POST, 1/19).
SOUTH BEACH SOLUTIONS: In Miami, Douglas Hanks notes the city "risks losing its chance to serve as a World Cup city over the soccer tournament’s demands for contractual protections" at Miami Int'l Airport -- including a provision that "any disputes be resolved by arbitration in Zurich, Switzerland." The dispute revolves around FIFA requirements that MIA "cover unexpected expenses tied to the airport accommodating World Cup travelers and promoting the event." According to a memo from Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos Gimenez, should any requirements "result in conflicts between Miami-Dade and FIFA, county officials would need to head to Zurich, home to the FIFA headquarters, and resolve them in arbitration procedures governed by Swiss law." Gimenez: "The County has clearly expressed to all involved that such requirements are not acceptable." Gimenez wants county commissioners to "approve signing the airport agreement, but with additional terms drafted by Miami-Dade lawyers designed to limit the county’s exposure to surprise costs and disputes with FIFA." Commissioners are "scheduled to vote on the item Tuesday." A statement issued by United Bid Committee Exec Dir John Kristick noted that 32 cities in North America have already "agreed to serve as hosts, though as few as 12 may ultimately be picked to actually host World Cup games" (MIAMI HERALD, 1/19).
