Andrew Giuliani, executive director of the White House Task Force on the World Cup, has accused UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer of 'putting lives at risk' by intervening to prevent a last-minute change to England's World Cup last-16 match against Mexico. The accusation comes after FIFA considered moving the kick-off time from 6pm local time to noon due to concerns over potential thunderstorms and fan safety.
Giuliani's accusations
Speaking to talkSPORT, Giuliani claimed that Starmer's intervention through diplomatic channels to keep the original evening kick-off time led to the deaths of three Mexican fans during celebrations after the match. 'In the round of 32 after the match, three Mexicans died in this celebration. And there were discussions about moving that match time from the evening to noon so that way you would have less risk of life to Mexicans,' Giuliani said. He described Starmer's decision as 'much graver' than any on-pitch matters.
Downing Street's response
Downing Street has clarified Starmer's role, stating that the Prime Minister was 'supportive of representations made by the Football Association regarding the practical implications of a proposed scheduling change for the team's preparations.' The statement emphasised that the final decision on fixture timings remained a matter for FIFA, and that decisions on disciplinary matters are for the relevant football authorities.
Context of US criticism
The US government has faced criticism after President Donald Trump spoke with FIFA president Gianni Infantino about Folarin Balogun's red card, leading to the suspension of the USA striker's one-match ban. Giuliani brushed aside that criticism, instead focusing on Starmer's actions.
Starmer on bank holiday and red card
Separately, Starmer has not ruled out a bank holiday if England wins the World Cup, saying 'ask me again if we get to the final.' He also confirmed he would not follow Trump's lead in attempting to overturn Jarell Quansah's red card from the Mexico match. England faces Norway in Miami on Saturday in the quarter-finals.
