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According to a senior White House official, Sir Keir Starmer’s involvement in the debate over the Mexico versus England kick-off schedule has been described as “far more serious” than former President Donald Trump’s lobbying of FIFA concerning a red card incident.

Andrew Giuliani, who serves as the Executive Director of the White House’s World Cup Task Force, drew the comparison, suggesting that the British Prime Minister’s actions carried greater significance.

Reports indicate that Sir Keir supported efforts by the Football Association to prevent FIFA from moving the Mexico City match’s start time from 6 p.m. to noon. Such a shift would have significantly hindered England’s preparations for their last-16 tie at the city’s high altitude.

Giuliani argued that this intervention was more impactful than President Trump’s direct call to FIFA President Gianni Infantino, in which he requested a “review” of Folarin Balogun’s red card. Following Trump’s involvement, FIFA’s disciplinary committee decided to suspend the American striker’s ban.

Explaining his stance, Giuliani told Times Radio, “I would view Starmer’s involvement as a far more serious matter when you consider that the reason for possibly advancing the game earlier was due to three Mexicans losing their lives after the round of 32 victory over Ecuador. The late timing and over a million people gathering in the city centre contributed to that.”

He added, “The discussions were centred on life and safety matters. That’s where the focus should be — rather than on what happens on the pitch.”

“One intervention was about protecting lives and public safety, while the other concerned events on the field. I think the distinction between those two is quite clear.”

FIFA has faced criticism for alleged political interference — something its statutes explicitly forbid — following the Balogun case. However, Gianni Infantino issued a statement affirming that FIFA’s committees operate independently.

When questioned about the matter, the Prime Minister’s spokesperson highlighted the difference between the two cases, stating, “The Prime Minister was clear that he supported the Football Association’s representations regarding the practical effects of the proposed scheduling change on the team’s preparations.”

The spokesperson further noted, “The ultimate decision on fixture timings rested with FIFA. As we’ve always said, disciplinary decisions and the enforcement of the game’s rules are matters for FIFA and the relevant football authorities.”

Giuliani also defended President Trump’s engagement in the Balogun issue, saying, “Here’s the truth about President Trump — he believes in fair play. Fair play at the ballot box, and fair play on the football field. I think the final outcome, in suspending Balogun’s ban, was the correct one.”

He continued, “Credit to Belgium. The President said that if Belgium won because they were the better team, then you simply tip your cap. Both sides had their best players on the pitch, and Belgium were clearly the superior team on Monday.”

Giuliani also hinted that the United States might consider bidding to host the 2038 World Cup.