FIFA is set to strengthen its presence in the United States by opening a new office in Trump Tower, New York City, as part of its relationship with U.S. President Donald Trump. This move comes as FIFA President Gianni Infantino has been cultivating ties with Trump over the past year, including multiple visits to the White House and Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate. Infantino’s engagement with the Trump administration is aimed at bolstering support for football events in the U.S., notably the ongoing Club World Cup and the upcoming men’s World Cup, which marks the nation’s growing significance in the sport.
At a recent gathering in Trump Tower designed to showcase the Club World Cup trophy, Infantino announced the opening of the New York office, emphasizing the necessity for FIFA to be local as it operates as a global organization. He acknowledged Trump’s enthusiasm for soccer, stating, “To be global, you have to be local…we have to be in New York.”
While some view the move as practical given New York’s status as a hub for football activities, critics raise concerns regarding FIFA’s expanding footprint. Infantino’s decision to establish this new office follows the recent opening of a significant legal department base in Miami and an existing presence in Toronto, leading to questions about the necessity of multiple offices, particularly when FIFA primarily operated from Zurich for over a century.
Additionally, there’s historical context to consider, as Trump Tower was previously linked to Chuck Blazer, a former U.S. football administrator whose cooperation with authorities led to a significant scandal affecting FIFA. This association raises eyebrows regarding the ethics of Trump holding strong ties with FIFA amid ongoing discussions about the intersection of his political and business interests.
In the broader landscape, this partnership between FIFA and Trump reflects an evolving dynamic in sports governance, where relationships with political figures can impact organizational strategy and public perception. As FIFA looks to solidify its influence in North America, it remains essential for the organization to navigate these affiliations carefully to maintain credibility and focus on the growth of football in the region.
This move could signify a new chapter for FIFA in the U.S., potentially culminating in greater support for football’s development and enhanced visibility of upcoming tournaments. The hope is that such relationships will foster a thriving football culture while steering clear of any controversial undertones from the past.