President Donald Trump is expected to play a much more visible role when the 2026 FIFA World Cup concludes in New Jersey. A new report indicates FIFA has no objection to him personally handing the iconic trophy to the winning captain. The final game will take place on July 19 at MetLife Stadium.
Donald Trump might hand the trophy to winning team, report says
According to TalkSport, FIFA officials are prepared to let Donald Trump lead the World Cup trophy presentation in a manner that breaks from long-standing tradition. Trump’s potential on-field role draws comparisons to his appearance at FIFA’s Club World Cup final last summer. That event was also held at the same New Jersey venue. It saw the president join FIFA chief Gianni Infantino on stage as Chelsea players received their medals. Rather than simply presenting the trophy and stepping aside, Trump helped carry it to captain Reece James and remained close by as the team celebrated.
James later commented on the unexpected moment. “Before, they told me he was going to present the trophy, and then exit the stage,” the Chelsea captain said. “I thought that he was gonna exit the stage. But I think he wanted to stay.”
A similar scenario could now happen after the final. Sources cited by the outlet claim FIFA has informed Trump that he may present the World Cup trophy “in any way he sees fit.” The decision on whether he stands alongside the world champions as they lift the trophy will ultimately rest with the president.
Heads of state occasionally take part in sporting trophy ceremonies. Yet traditional FIFA protocol keeps the focus squarely on the winning team. The trophy typically rests on a podium before being handed over, leaving the captain and squad to command the stage.
This comes amid Trump imposing stricter immigration enforcement that has already disrupted the tournament. A Somali referee sent back to the Iran team traveling from Mexico for matches, the World Cup is going through hoops.
