Calls for a potential boycott of the 2026 FIFA World Cup have emerged in Europe after a senior German football official suggested that escalating political tensions between the United States and the European Union could warrant collective action against the tournament, which is set to be hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico.

The remarks come amid renewed controversy surrounding US President Donald Trump’s stated push to “acquire” Greenland, a move that has unsettled European leaders and raised concerns about strained transatlantic relations. The issue has reportedly triggered wider debates within the EU about political alignment, security, and diplomatic responses, with sport now being drawn into the discussion.

Speaking to Hamburger Morgenpost, as cited by BBC Sport, Oke Göttlich, vice-president of the Deutscher Fußball-Bund (DFB), or German Football Association, floated the idea of a European Union-led boycott of the 2026 World Cup. While no formal proposal has been made, Göttlich indicated that political developments could not be viewed in isolation from major international sporting events.

Also Read: FIFA President Gianni Infantino Responds to Criticism Over 2026 World Cup Ticket Pricing

Any coordinated boycott by EU-linked nations would carry significant implications for FIFA and the tournament itself. European teams have historically been central to the World Cup’s competitiveness, global viewership, and commercial appeal. A withdrawal by major footballing nations could undermine the sporting and economic foundations of the event.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is scheduled to kick off this summer and will be the first edition of the tournament to be jointly hosted by three countries. It is also expected to be the largest World Cup in history, with an expanded field of participating teams and matches spread across multiple cities in North America.

Neither FIFA nor European football’s governing bodies have issued official responses to the boycott suggestion so far. However, the comments highlight how geopolitical tensions may increasingly intersect with global sporting events, placing football authorities under pressure to navigate complex political landscapes ahead of the tournament.

Also Read: MS Dhoni Makes IPL 2026 Intent Crystal Clear With Ranchi Session