Shehu Sani Reacts As Nations Consider Pulling Out Of The World Cup Over FIFA’s Link With Trump

Former Nigerian senator and rights activist, Shehu Sani, has reacted to mounting calls for a boycott of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, warning that the controversy underscores the risks of FIFA’s growing entanglement in global politics.

In a post on his official X handle on Monday, January 12, 2026, Sani said he had closely followed the boycott campaign targeting the tournament, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. He argued that FIFA’s political associations could have far-reaching consequences for the competition.

“I have read the call for the boycott of the FIFA World Cup in the US. This is one of the demerits of FIFA meddling or dabbling into global politics,” Sani wrote. “If the Europeans and Latin Americans pulled out, that’s the end of the story.”

The boycott calls are linked to FIFA’s relationship with the administration of US President Donald Trump, particularly following the decision to honour him with a controversial “sports peace prize” despite ongoing corruption allegations and sharp criticism of his policies. The development has reignited debate over whether football’s global governing body has compromised its neutrality.

Critics of the FIFA have cited several grievances, including the Trump administration’s immigration crackdowns, travel restrictions affecting certain countries, hostile rhetoric toward Mexico, and broader human rights concerns. Economic factors such as rising ticket prices and FIFA’s expansion of the tournament to 48 teams have also been flagged as issues that could alienate fans and smaller footballing nations.

Sani’s comments highlight fears that any coordinated withdrawal by major football blocs in Europe or Latin America could severely damage the credibility and competitive value of the 2026 tournament, potentially triggering one of the most serious crises FIFA has faced in modern football history.

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