Donald Trump interrupted FIFA president Gianni Infantino's speech at a Trump Tower reception on Friday, delivering a cutting jibe about the United States' early World Cup exit. The incident occurred as Infantino praised FIFA's mission of uniting the globe through football.
Infantino had been extolling the World Cup's achievements, stating, "Because, I don't know if you know, but the official definition of FIFA is, FIFA is the official happiness provider to humanity for 120 years. We are providing joy and happiness." Trump interjected with a sardonic remark: "Unless your team loses."
Reception Ahead of Final
The exchange took place during a celebration of the tournament ahead of Sunday's final between Spain and Argentina at MetLife Stadium. Trump hosted the reception in Manhattan, where he and Infantino posed together alongside the World Cup trophy. Trump plans to help present the trophy to the winning side.
Infantino heaped praise on Trump, crediting the tournament's success entirely to him. "You don't need people to compliment you, Mr. President, but this World Cup would not have been such an incredible success without you," Infantino said. He described the event as not just the finest World Cup but "the greatest human, social and cultural event that mankind has ever witnessed."
Trump's Praise and Future Hosting Ideas
Trump called the tournament "one of the all-time greatest sporting events in history" and praised America's role as host. "It's been a true honor for Americans to share our magnificent country with the world," he said. "And today, America, it's stronger and wealthier and hotter than ever before, and you're a big part of it."
Beyond the USMNT's early exit, Trump suggested the United States should host the World Cup alone next time. "You should choose the United States of America again," Trump said. "This time, we will leave Canada and Mexico out." He recommended that FIFA should "pick somebody else for the next one and that will take some of the anger, hatred and steam out of everyone."
Joint Hosting Proposal and Balogun Controversy
Trump revealed that Infantino had privately floated a joint U.S.-China hosting deal for a future tournament, joking that players would benefit from "a nice short flight in between games."
The reception also gave Trump another chance to revisit his role in overturning Folarin Balogun's red-card ban during the tournament. The decision sparked condemnation from UEFA and international observers after Trump admitted personally reaching out to Infantino to demand a review. "Gianni made yet another of his good decisions," Trump said, adding, "You made another great decision. You'll never get credit for that."
