President Donald Trump will take center stage at Sunday’s World Cup final, presenting the trophy to either Spain or Argentina in a moment that caps off a tournament already marked by his controversial intervention.
Controversy, Cameras, and a Trophy: Trump Prepares for World Cup Final Appearance
Trump will join FIFA President Gianni Infantino, a close ally, on the podium at MetLife Stadium as the two nations battle for football’s ultimate prize.
The appearance marks the first World Cup match the 80-year-old president has attended, despite his usual appetite for the global spotlight.
Just two weeks ago, Trump sparked outrage across the football world when he phoned Infantino to request FIFA overturn a red card against US striker Folarin Balogun.
The suspension would have ruled the player out of the last-16 clash with Belgium.
While the move drew fierce criticism over fairness and political influence, the president has since declared the 2026 tournament the most successful sporting event “maybe in the history of the world.”
“This has been the most successful sporting event maybe in the history of the world. It’s been amazing,” Trump told a FIFA reception at Trump Tower on Friday.
First Lady Melania Trump and her father Viktor Knavs will accompany the president.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez and members of Spain’s royal family also plan to attend, despite Trump recently criticizing Madrid over its NATO spending and refusal to assist with the Iran conflict.
The final could provide an unexpected diplomatic moment. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney will join the gathering amid ongoing tensions with Washington.
Trump threatened Canada with tariffs Friday after wildfire smoke drifted into the northeastern US, raising air quality concerns for Sunday’s match.
Relations with Mexico remain strained over Trump’s immigration crackdown and threats of military action against drug cartels.
Security will prove exceptionally heavy, with a no-fly zone around the stadium as Trump arrives from his New Jersey golf club.
The president has closely tied his political brand to the World Cup since returning to office. He frequently boasts about securing the tournament and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics during his first term.
On Friday, he joked about wanting the US to co-host a future World Cup with China just a day after accusing Beijing of interfering in the 2020 election.
At last year’s FIFA Club World Cup final in the same stadium, Chelsea players found themselves “a bit confused” when Trump remained on the podium as they celebrated.
He later claimed he kept the trophy in the Oval Office, though FIFA clarified the version displayed was merely a replica.
Whatever happens on the pitch, Trump will ensure he provides a show.
