Former President Trump ignited a debate during the 2026 World Cup draw, questioning the very name of the sport Americans call soccer. He openly mused whether the game should simply be referred to as “football,” aligning it with the terminology used across much of the globe.
Speaking at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Trump’s thoughts drifted back to a memory of watching the legendary Pelé play for the New York Cosmos. He recalled being immediately struck by Pelé’s skill, declaring, “That man can play!”
The former President highlighted a perceived naming conflict within the United States, pointing out the existence of “another thing called football” – the NFL. He argued that logically, the sport gaining immense popularity internationally *should* be the one bearing the name “football.”
Trump proposed a radical solution: renaming the National Football League. He acknowledged the NFL’s success, noting record-breaking season ticket sales, but still maintained that a name change was warranted given soccer’s global rise.
He marveled at the sport’s rapid growth, acknowledging the incredible leap it has taken in popularity. Trump extended his congratulations to FIFA, recognizing the organization’s role in the sport’s expanding reach and influence.
