Thomas Meunier criticises football's dark side

Thomas Meunier has condemned the political and commercial influence he believes overshadowed football at the 2026 World Cup. The Sunderland right-back said the tournament exposed what he considers the sport’s darker side, with entertainment and financial interests taking precedence over the game.

The 35-year-old Belgian pointed to the Folarin Balogun controversy as an example. Balogun’s suspension following a red card was cancelled after an intervention by Donald Trump, an episode Meunier viewed as evidence that outside power had become too influential in football. Belgium’s campaign ended in the quarter-finals against Spain, but the tournament’s wider handling left a stronger impression on him.

Meunier also questioned whether football and politics can genuinely be separated. He argued that the sport reflects wider social issues, including racism, while describing football’s governing structures as political and financial systems. In his view, leadership becomes dangerous when decisions move away from sporting principles.

The defender did not blame the United States’ ability to host the competition. He acknowledged that the country has enough infrastructure to stage a World Cup every year, but said that would only work if football remained the central priority. Meunier has played at three World Cups and has 83 Belgium caps.