When we think of Donald Trump, the last thing that probably comes to mind is any connection to soccer, the sport many Americans still see as a foreign import. But what few realize is that Trump’s no-nonsense style, business acumen, and distaste for political correctness may have made him the first president truly in sync with soccer’s growth in the U.S. And that’s no small feat, especially for those who view soccer as part of a new American era, where tradition and innovation blend in unexpected ways.
Now, Trump’s never been known as an avid soccer fan, but his ties with big names like the notorious Chuck Blazer and others in the soccer world make him a curious figure in the sport's U.S. history. Blazer, neck-deep in corruption scandals, saw his empire crumble right under Trump’s nose in Trump Tower. Some laugh at this or roll their eyes, but, taking a step back, it’s hard to deny that Trump’s proximity to FIFA and CONCACAF folks indirectly, and strategically, impacted soccer in the States.
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Trump knows how to put on a show. When he critiques the "woke" culture and calls out public figures using sports as a platform for activism, he's speaking to an America craving soccer that's free from political strings, one that resonates with traditional values. Some mock him for railing against political correctness in sports, but he's echoing the sentiment of millions who want to see a game focused on just that, the game, without political overtones.
Look at the Premier League, Bundesliga, or Ligue 1. They’ve thrived on multiculturalism while staying true to their roots. And that’s exactly the line Trump thinks American soccer should walk: welcoming talent while holding onto an American essence that puts the country above globalist agendas. Trump’s view might sound blunt, but deep down, it’s about preserving local values and protecting a culture some see as under threat.
When Trump says that woke culture spells failure, he's pointing at a growing phenomenon in sports, where athletes are pushed into embracing causes that don’t always reflect their fans' views. We saw this in the clash with the USWNT, who took heat from Trump and other conservatives. His stance? Let the game be about the game. It’s a view that believes soccer should unite, not divide. To Trump, who’s always prized success and merit, political activism on the field seems like a distraction that waters down performance.
And there’s substance to this stance. Trump understands that soccer’s success in America hinges on something few want to admit: a genuine connection with the fans. To him, that means a sport that channels the American spirit of competitiveness, grit, and determination. He sees that for soccer to truly thrive in the U.S., it needs a unique identity, a mix of American flair and the global passion for the sport. And that goes beyond politics; it’s about national identity.
Critics often miss what Trump really stands for in soccer. It’s easy to get caught up in flashy headlines from biased journalists. Trump’s message is clear: he believes soccer should inspire pride and patriotism, without being bogged down by agendas that stray from the game itself. Maybe that’s why, for better or worse, Trump still resonates with a sizable chunk of Americans. His unfiltered approach may be divisive, but when it comes to soccer, he brings a raw truth many avoid.
Trump wants soccer to honor the legacy of other American sports. And he’s not alone. Millions agree that sports should be a getaway, not a battleground. In an age where entertainment and politics seem inseparable, Trump sees soccer as the possible exception, a sanctuary for those who just want to watch a good game, cheer on their team, and escape the world’s pressures for 90 minutes.
If there’s one thing Trump’s brought to U.S. soccer, it’s a sense of independence, a push to avoid the pressure to conform to international norms. He wants an authentic sport that’s true to American values. Sure, not everyone will agree, but it’s undeniable he’s introduced a viewpoint that’s been missing from the U.S. soccer conversation. Instead of a sport that simply follows outside trends, he envisions a uniquely American style of soccer that respects tradition and steers clear of divisive politics.
Those who criticize Trump for his statements often forget that he’s a leader who genuinely understands the power of image and message. For him, soccer in the U.S. needs a clear, focused vision, free from distractions. The sport should be a space where everyone can cheer, regardless of differences. And contrary to popular belief, that doesn’t mean he’s against diversity. He simply believes the core of the sport should come before any political agenda.
It’s easy to read headlines and underestimate Trump’s influence on soccer. But the reality is, he’s brought a fresh perspective, a sense of authenticity, and a commitment to a sport free of ideological divides. Soccer fans may not have known they needed this; but maybe, just maybe, they're starting to see it.