Andrew Giuliani, executive director of the White House Task Force on the World Cup, has accused former UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer of putting lives at risk through his intervention in scheduling for an England vs. Mexico World Cup match. Starmer's diplomatic efforts, alongside objections from the English and Mexican Football Associations, ultimately prevented FIFA from moving the last-16 clash forward by six hours due to thunderstorm threats.
Giuliani, speaking to talkSPORT, suggested that Starmer's action was a "graver decision" than any potential pitch-related consequences. He referenced an incident following a previous match in the round of 32, where three Mexican fans died from asphyxiation during celebrations after Mexico's victory over Ecuador. Discussions had reportedly taken place to move that earlier match from the evening to noon, aiming to reduce risks associated with celebrations.
However, it has been clarified that there is no public evidence linking those fatalities to weather conditions. The source notes also point out the irony of a White House official criticizing governmental interference in football, citing President Donald Trump's recent actions. Trump contacted FIFA president Gianni Infantino to appeal a ban on U.S. player Folarin Balogun, which was subsequently suspended, allowing him to play against Belgium. Balogun had received a red card in a previous match, resulting in an automatic ban that FIFA ultimately set aside.