The White House has responded after Spain and FIFA removed US President Donald Trump from their social media photos of the World Cup final trophy lift. Trump lingered on the podium after handing the trophy to Spanish captain Rodri alongside FIFA president Gianni Infantino, causing Rodri to wait awkwardly before lifting the trophy. Trump had also handed out medals to both teams, including Argentina's Lionel Messi.
Social media edits
Spain cropped Trump out of their celebratory images, and FIFA followed suit, removing both Trump and Infantino from their version. The White House then posted multiple images of Trump with the Spanish squad, including an Instagram video where Trump is the only figure in focus in two photos.
Trump's trophy presentation history
This was the second time in 12 months Trump presented a football trophy, having done so for Chelsea at the Club World Cup final a year earlier. Broadcasters noted Trump remained on the platform after the ceremony before being led away, following boos upon entering the pitch. However, some Spanish players appeared delighted to meet Trump, with some performing the 'Trump dance' on the podium.
Trump's remarks on the tournament
Reflecting on the tournament held across North America, Trump said: "They both played well. I would say Spain played better. It was very exciting. It looked like Spain dominated but it was a very close match." He added: "[The World Cup] is one of the greatest events of any kind. We are really happy it did so well. People have come from all over the world and loved our country. We have showed our country in a different light and it was a great thing."
