President Donald Trump became the unexpected centre of attention during Spain’s World Cup triumph. His refusal to leave the podium after handing over the trophy triggered a viral storm across social media. The US president joined FIFA chief Gianni Infantino on the pitch at the New York New Jersey Stadium following Spain’s 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina. What should have been a routine ceremony turned awkward as Trump lingered among the celebrating players.
Donald Trump stays on podium as Spain lifts the trophy
Spain captain Rodri, also named player of the tournament, received the iconic trophy from Donald Trump and Gianni Infantino before gathering his teammates for the traditional lift. But rather than stepping aside, Trump remained firmly in view of the cameras on the edge of the stage.
Infantino was seen jogging across to urge the president to move away, but his instructions were ignored. The FIFA president responded with an awkward giggle as Trump stayed put, even breaking into his signature dance move at one point. The moment echoed a similar scene last year when Trump stayed visible during Chelsea’s Club World Cup celebrations.
The ceremony had already begun under a cloud. As Trump and Infantino went onto the field, loud boos rang out from sections of the crowd. The pair had watched the final from behind bulletproof glass at MetLife Stadium amid a massive security operation. The jeers subsided as the medal presentation got underway, with most Spanish players thanking Trump as they collected their medals. Yasir Al-Rumayyan, the Newcastle United owner and Saudi PIF governor, also shook hands with both men on the pitch.
Spain secured their second World Cup title through Ferran Torres’ extra-time winner. Argentina finished with 10 men after Enzo Fernandez was sent off in stoppage time, ending Lionel Messi’s hopes of retaining the trophy won four years earlier.
Despite Spain’s historic achievement, the immediate post-match discussion was dominated by the trophy ceremony. Videos of Trump refusing to leave the podium and the crowd’s hostile reaction spread rapidly online, cementing another controversial World Cup moment for the US president.
