The FIFA World Cup 2026 is onwards and talks of FIFA are in place, but not inside the football field, rather outside of it, in real estate. FIFA has officially opened the new U.S. office at the historic Trump Tower building in New York City which is an eye-opener for people and is the subject of many debates and discussions not only in the football community but also in many other sectors.
A Total, yet Risky, Decision
The Trump Tower building, which is located on 5th Avenue, has for a long time been identified as both the most recognizable and most controversial building in New York City. FIFA’s choice to locate its operations here in the U.S. at this place not only has logistical value, but it is also the statement of the century. The organization famous for spectacular matches and prominent management decisions has, once more, shown boundless imagination as the planet turns to the most exquisite World Cup.
During the 2026 tournament, it is believed the New York office will be the central control coordinate for all operations of FIFA in the country prior to the event, according to people who know about it. This involves marketing, sponsorship meetings, venue coordination, and media planning. Ongoing talks with local organizers in cities like Los Angeles, Dallas, and New York/New Jersey are also expected to happen at that office.
Political Image & Public Reaction
The office’s location naturally comes with the weight of politics. Trump Tower is very well known as the former U.S. President Donald Trump’s residence, and his name is still, very much, displayed in gold lettering at the building. Even though FIFA has not ruled out any political activity, the location of the office has already caused some inconveniences on social media; many people who are against it view it as inappropriate, while others think it is irrelevant.
Yet, many espouse the notion that this is simply pragmatic, and all it boils down to is practicality. Trump Tower has a high security facility, it is situated at a central transport route, and it has an address without which the event is hard to imagine—these are certainly reasons that make it difficult not to include them in the equation when organizing a colossal event like the World Cup.
Why New York?
FIFA is opening its gash in NY for practical reasons. NYC, as a major financial-media-cultural hub that attracts global businesses, offers FIFA a reach and, thus, the influence it has long desired. Furthermore, the city is near the MetLife Stadium, where some of the high-profile World Cup matches are scheduled to be held, making the decision feel more calculated rather than controversial.
There’s also the apparent increase in Americans’ desire for football (or soccer as some prefer it). The development of Major League Soccer, Messi’s transfer to Inter Miami, and movie-like ratings for recent tournaments have all clearly demonstrated that the U.S. audience not only is ready for it but they are also very eager to follow world-class soccer.
What this Indicates
The office opening is a key milestone marking the beginning of what is anticipated to be a busy period–FIFA in North America is set for the next 18 months of hard work. The 2026 tournament will feature 48 teams for the first time, with games spread across the three countries: the United States, Mexico, and Canada. With a record number of teams, fans, and logistical challenges, a strong on-the-ground presence is a must for FIFA.
Whether the Trump Tower was indeed the ideal place for that presence remains to be decided. However, what is beyond any doubt is that the clock is ticking down, and FIFA’s latest endeavor shows that they are not just working on their side of the field, they are even making big moves out of the field.
