Football fans have voiced growing concern over the safety of next year’s FIFA World Cup in the United States following the fatal shooting of conservative activist and Donald Trump ally, Charlie Kirk.
Kirk, 31, was shot in the neck while speaking onstage during an event at Utah Valley University on Wednesday, September 10. He was rushed to the hospital, but President Trump later confirmed his death, describing the Turning Point USA founder as “great” and “legendary.”
In the wake of the tragedy, fans took to social media demanding FIFA reconsider America’s role as host of the 2026 World Cup, citing security fears.
“With the broad daylight shooting and killing of Charlie Kirk, America should not be allowed by FIFA to co-host the World Cup,” one fan wrote on X. Another added: “How will the World Cup be held in an unsafe country after the scenes of Charlie Kirk’s murder?”
While the tournament will be jointly hosted by the USA, Mexico, and Canada, the vast majority of matches including all fixtures from the quarterfinal stage onward—will be played in American cities. The final is scheduled for MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
Kirk’s death has amplified already simmering debates about gun violence and public safety in the U.S., with critics arguing that FIFA may face mounting pressure to address global concerns ahead of the tournament.
