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France rejects World Cup boycott over Greenland

BBC Sport •
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France's sports minister Marina Ferrari has ruled out a World Cup boycott, stating there is "no desire" from her ministry to pull out of the tournament. This follows US President Donald Trump's threats to impose tariffs on France and other European nations for opposing his bid to acquire Greenland from Denmark. Ferrari emphasized keeping sport separate from politics.

The debate has split opinion, with some French left-wing politicians calling for a boycott. Meanwhile, the Danish Football Association confirmed it is monitoring the situation but remains focused on qualifying for the tournament. With 78 of 104 matches hosted in the US, geopolitical tensions are casting a shadow over the 2026 event.

European football leaders are reportedly discussing potential responses to Trump's actions. The controversy follows FIFA President Gianni Infantino awarding Trump a peace prize last year, a move criticized by human rights groups. As the tournament approaches, the main concern is whether political disputes will impact fan travel and safety.