Rahm Emanuel, Chicago, FIFA, Soldier Field
8 June 2026
Former Chicago mayor Rahm Emanuel defended his decision to reject 2026 World Cup hosting terms, saying FIFA shifted too much financial risk onto taxpayers. Chicago withdrew despite having Soldier Field, major transport links and previous World Cup hosting history.
Emanuel said FIFA’s contract exposed the city to security, transport, tax and stadium costs while FIFA kept most revenue. A possible demand for a Soldier Field dome became the final breaking point in negotiations.