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Jun 23, 2026 Major3
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Trump Confirmed to Present Trophy at 2026 FIFA World Cup Final in New York
FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirmed that US President Donald Trump will present the World Cup trophy at the 2026 final on 19 July at MetLife Stadium in New York. Trump's prominent role in the ceremony has sparked both support for recognizing the host nation and criticism regarding the politicization of sport's greatest moment.
Quick Facts
Who
Donald Trump
What
Trump confirmed to present trophy at 2026 World Cup final
When
19 July 2026
Where
MetLife Stadium
- Trump confirmed to present trophy at 2026 World Cup final
- Infantino announced arrangement in Fox & Friends interview
- Trump remained on podium during 2025 Club World Cup final trophy ceremony
- Trump has not attended any World Cup matches since tournament began
- Donald Trump
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has confirmed that US President Donald Trump will present the World Cup trophy to the winning team at the 2026 FIFA World Cup final on 19 July at MetLife Stadium in New York. Infantino announced the arrangement during an interview with Fox & Friends, stating that he and Trump will "enjoy the final together" and present the trophy to the champions. Trump's participation marks a significant symbolic gesture given his status as the sitting US President and host nation leader, as the majority of World Cup matches are being held across the United States.
Trump has maintained a notably low profile throughout the tournament since its start on 11 June, having not attended any group stage or knockout matches to date. However, his relationship with Infantino has grown close during preparations for the tournament, which is being co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. When asked whether he would accompany Trump during the trophy ceremony, Infantino emphasized their close working relationship, stating "Of course. We are together almost all the time."
The announcement has generated both support and criticism. Supporters view Trump's involvement as appropriate recognition of the United States' role as host nation, demonstrating America's commitment to the tournament. Critics, however, have raised concerns that the presence of a political figure at the sport's most prestigious moment could overshadow the players and fans by transforming the ceremony into a political platform rather than a purely sporting celebration.
Trump's involvement recalls a notable moment from the Club World Cup final held at the same stadium in 2025, when Trump presented the trophy to Chelsea captain Reece James but remained on the podium during the celebration rather than departing after the handover. Chelsea player Cole Palmer later expressed surprise at this unexpected protocol, stating he was "a little confused" about Trump staying on the stage while the team lifted the trophy. James himself commented that Trump remained to congratulate the team and encouraged them to enjoy the moment.
Why This Matters
Trump's confirmed role at the 2026 World Cup final represents a watershed moment for how political leadership intersects with global sports ceremonies. For international audiences and stakeholders, this decision signals unprecedented integration of high-level political presence into football's most prestigious event, raising practical questions about protocol, broadcasting framing, and whether such visibility enhances or compromises the sporting spectacle. For Trump supporters, it validates US authority as host; for critics, it sets a contentious precedent about politicizing sport that other nations and future tournaments will now reference.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 11, 2026
Wire2026 FIFA World Cup begins
Jun 23, 2026
WireGianni Infantino announces Trump will present trophy at World Cup final in Fox & Friends interview
Jul 19, 2026
Wire2026 FIFA World Cup final scheduled at MetLife Stadium, New York; Trump to present trophy