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Wilson's transition team pointed to a campaign statement in which she said she wanted the city to host an "awesome" World Cup and "This is a chance to make permanent upgrades to downtown public spaces and public transit, not just expensive, temporary improvements for the duration of the event." “President Trump’s comments about moving the 2026 World Cup out of Seattle once again display his ignorance about our city and what we stand for," Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell stated. "The safety of residents and visitors to Seattle is always a top concern of our administration. Violent crime is down 20%, homicides are down 42%, and shootings are down 29%." Harrell continued, "Seattle continues to attract major sporting, cultural, and music events, showing that visitors and organizers from around the world have confidence in our city. As a global destination for sports, we have been doing our part to prepare for a safe, welcoming, and fun experience for all who come to Seattle for matches. We are not going to be intimidated by political theatrics from the other Washington. Seattle leaders will continue to do the hard work necessary to create a safe, welcoming, and fun experience for residents and visitors alike.” Visit Seattle, the city's tourism arm, also issued a statement: "We are thrilled to welcome soccer fans from around the world for FIFA World Cup 2026. Seattle – and the greater state of Washington - is all in on creating a memorable World Cup experience. We are actively collaborating with local partners and law enforcement to deliver a safe and secure World Cup." Washington Gov. Bob Ferguson also reacted with a statement, reading “Seattle will be an excellent host for the World Cup. My team has been working hard with the city of Seattle and our partners to make sure we’re one of the best regions to host these games. I look forward to working with Mayor Wilson and her team. We’re excited to share our city and our state with the world.”
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