FIFA told to ditch USA for 2026 World Cup and move fixtures to UK in shock last-minute move
The 2026 World Cup is just around the corner as multiple countries eye the illustrious trophy in the USA, Mexico and Canada.
The final nations will earn their place at the tournament in March when the playoffs get underway.
The likes of Wales, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland will be competing in the World Cup playoffs as the final arrangements for football’s biggest tournament get underway.
However, with the USA the primary host of the competition, Jeff Stelling has called on FIFA to arrange last-minute plans to move the World Cup elsewhere.
This year means more. 🏆 #FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/NDBmVFe94T
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) January 1, 2026
Jeff Stelling: The USA should be stripped of hosting 2026 World Cup
Despite being held in the USA, the World Cup has already encountered multiple potential issues.
However, the political climate in the United States is also causing outrage online ahead of the summer tournament.
ICE agents’ activity in the nation has caused widespread backlash, not just in the USA, but abroad.
One such critic is former Sky Sports presenter Stelling, who has now called on the USA to be stripped of hosting the current 2026 World Cup due to what is currently happening in the country.
When someone said that it was “irresponsible” for FIFA to allow the United States to host the World Cup at present, Stelling replied on X: “Totally agree. They should look at alternatives like the UK to be honest.”
Totally agree. They should look at alternatives like the UK tbh.
— Jeff Stelling (@JeffStelling) January 15, 2026
This would be an unprecedented turn of events if it were to happen, with the tournament months away from starting.
When does the 2026 World Cup get underway?
As it stands, the 2026 World Cup is set to begin on 11 June.
The opening match will be Mexico vs South Africa, with the match hosted at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. Kick-off is at 8pm GMT.
Scotland’s World Cup campaign starts three days later on 14 June when they take on Haiti. Kick-off is at 2am GMT, at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts.
In comparison, England’s campaign is one of the latest to begin.
The Three Lions are set to face Croatia on 17 June at 9pm GTM. The match will be hosted at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.