Football fans are demanding that the United States lose its right to host the 2026 World Cup after conservative activist Charlie Kirk was tragically killed.
Kirk, 31, was speaking on stage at Utah Valley University on Wednesday, September 10, when he was shot in the neck.
He was immediately taken to a nearby hospital, but doctors were unable to save him. Former President Donald Trump later confirmed Kirk’s death.
With the World Cup scheduled to start next summer, many soccer fans are worried about holding the tournament in the U.S. amid safety concerns.
“One cannot hold the World Cup in a country where such shootings happen in broad daylight,” one fan wrote online.
Another added, “How can FIFA host the World Cup in America after witnessing Charlie Kirk’s murder?”
A third fan commented, “For everyone’s safety, the tournament should not take place in the United States.”
“After watching the video of Charlie Kirk’s shooting, hosting the World Cup in America does not feel safe or wise,” said another observer.
The 2026 World Cup will take place across Mexico, Canada, and the U.S., but most matches will be in the United States.
Out of 16 host cities, 11 are in the U.S., including all games from the quarterfinals onward. The final is set for MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
Charlie Kirk was a close ally of former President Trump, who paid tribute to him after his death.
Trump wrote, “The great and legendary Charlie Kirk has passed. No one connected with the youth of America like him.
He was loved by many, especially me. My sympathies go to his wife Erika and family. Charlie, we love you.”
