Monday, July 20, 2026

World Cup in U.S. won’t be boycotted over Trump’s Greenland takeover bid: France

Ms Ferrari made the comments just before Mr Trump ruled out using military force to take over Greenland.

• January 21, 2026
FIFA WORLD CUP
FIFA World Cup trophy used to illustrate the story [Photo credit: ESPN]

The French government has reiterated that it is not considering boycotting the 2026 FIFA World Cup billed to be co-hosted by the United States alongside Canada and Mexico despite President Donald Trump’s persistent efforts to take over Greenland.

France’s sports minister, Marina Ferrari, disclosed this on Wednesday amid growing suggestions across Europe that countries should boycott the World Cup if Mr Trump persists with his threat to forcibly seize control of the Denmark-controlled autonomous territory.

“As it stands now, there is no desire from the ministry for a boycott of this great competition,” Ms Ferrari said. “Now, I will not anticipate what could happen, but I have also heard voices raised from certain political blocs.”

She added, “I am one who believes in keeping sport separate [from politics]. The World Cup is an extremely important moment for those who love sport.”

Ms Ferrari made the comments just before Mr Trump ruled out using military force to take over Greenland while speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland on Wednesday.

However, the American leader insisted that he was seeking “immediate negotiations” with his European allies to acquire the mineral-rich Arctic territory, which the Trump administration has linked to national security concerns.

Last month, FIFA pesident, Gianni Infantino, controversially awarded Mr Trump as the maiden winner of the governing body’s inaugural peace prize, citing the politician’s efforts in promoting peace around the world.

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