The White House has criticized Sir Keir Starmer for opposing a proposed change to the kick-off time of England’s World Cup last-16 match against Mexico, suggesting that his intervention may have put lives at risk. The match, originally scheduled for an evening slot, was under consideration by FIFA to be moved six hours earlier due to threats of severe thunderstorms on the day of the game.
Andrew Giuliani, executive director of the White House World Cup task force and son of former New York City mayor Rudy Giuliani, stated on a radio program that Starmer’s diplomatic involvement in the scheduling decision was more consequential than former President Donald Trump’s efforts to overturn a red card handed to US striker Folarin Balogun. Giuliani cited the deaths of three Mexican fans who were crushed in the aftermath of Mexico’s victory over Ecuador in Mexico City on July 1, arguing that an earlier kick-off could have mitigated the risks by reducing the opportunity for large crowds and heavy drinking prior to the match.
The proposed time change faced opposition from both the English and Mexican Football Associations, as well as from the UK Prime Minister. Officials indicated concerns about the impact of an earlier game on teams' preparations and fans' travel plans. A Downing Street spokesman said the Prime Minister supported the representations made by the Football Association but emphasized that fixture timing decisions remained the responsibility of FIFA.
Following the Mexico-Ecuador match, the deaths were attributed to asphyxiation caused by crowd crushes, a tragedy that authorities linked to festive celebrations rather than weather conditions. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum had previously urged fans to avoid excessive drinking and overcrowding in public spaces on match days.
The White House comments came amid broader discussions about political figures influencing sporting decisions. Trump recently confirmed he had contacted FIFA President Gianni Infantino to request a review of the disciplinary action against Balogun, a move that sparked controversy given the co-host nation’s interests. Trump maintained that he only asked for a review, not an overturn of the ruling, and did not instruct FIFA on their decision.
The situation highlights ongoing tensions between the governance of major international sporting events and external political pressures, especially when public safety and the integrity of competition intersect. FIFA has not publicly commented on the criticism regarding the scheduling of the England-Mexico game, maintaining its position that fixture decisions fall under its jurisdiction.