Donald Trump sparks fears countries will boycott 2026 World Cup and 2028 Olympic Games
Donald Trump has sparked fears that several nations could ‘boycott’ the 2028 Olympics, which is set to take place in Los Angeles.
Trump, 78, has already thrown the 2026 World Cup into chaos with his decision regarding trade tariffs and proposed travel bans in recent weeks with many people voicing their concerns about the next Olympics, which could be affected.
LA was formally awarded the 131st Games back in September 2017 during Trump’s first term as President.
The American has already pledged that the LA Olympics will be the “most important games” following the devastating wildfires in the city last summer.
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"These are America's Olympics," said Trump in January with the quotes relayed by AXIOS.
"These are more important than ever to L.A. and I'm going to be supportive in every way possible and make them the greatest games."
And despite his positive words about the games, fans are concerned that some countries could pull out of the event due to new tariffs imposed by Trump.
The President unveiled new tariffs on imports to the US during a speech on Wednesday.
A tariff is effectively an added tax on imported goods, with countries such as China (34% tariff), Japan (24%), Vietnam (46%) and the EU (20%) all affected by the new measures.
But that’s not all. In early March, a proposed travel ban list was released, which could target citizens of up to 43 countries, many of which will compete at the 2028 Olympics.
The list was divided into three categories – red, orange and yellow – depending on the severity of the proposed bans.
Although no country has confirmed their stance on potentially boycotting the Olympics, fans have voiced their concerns on social media.
One said: "Dear every country who is now subject to Tariffs. If you really want to send a message beyond tariffs on the US, wait until the very last moment (say April or May) in 2028 and give the best gift you can for the end of this Trump admin. Boycott the Olympic."
Another added: "Boycott the World Cup in 2026! Boycott the Olympics in 2028! Boycott American products if possible! Boycott US Independence Day! Show Trump we are p***ed!"
While a third exclaimed: "It would be funny if every Country decided to boycott the Olympics and the World Cup, all because of Trump and his tariffs."
Topics: Donald Trump, Olympics
Luke Davies