Professional lip reader Jeremy Freeman has disclosed the exact words exchanged between FIFA president Gianni Infantino and US President Donald Trump after Trump refused to leave the stage during the World Cup final trophy ceremony. Spain had just defeated Argentina to claim their second World Cup title, but the post-match events were marred by controversy both on and off the pitch.
Trump's Reluctance to Leave the Stage
After Spain's captain Rodri received the trophy jointly from Trump and Infantino, Trump lingered awkwardly at the side of the stage instead of stepping off as expected. Infantino rushed over and, according to Freeman, leaned into Trump's ear and said: "Ha ha ha ha, you stay with them?!" The comment was delivered with a laugh, but Freeman described Infantino as appearing perplexed by Trump's actions.
Freeman also revealed what Trump said to Rodri while handing him the trophy: "Very good, well done, well done." The incident mirrors a similar situation last year when Trump was reluctant to leave the stage after Chelsea beat Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup.
Political and On-Field Drama
The final was not without its own drama. Argentina's Enzo Fernandez received a red card in the 93rd minute, and several Argentina players appeared to lash out at their Spanish rivals after the match. Additionally, Trump faced criticism for being too close to the celebrations, and videos posted on X showed him being booed before the final.
Earlier in the tournament, Trump sparked a global scandal by allegedly pressuring FIFA to overturn a red card given to American player Folarin Balogun before their match against Belgium. After the card was overturned, Trump wrote on Truth Social: "Thank you to FIFA for doing what was right, and reversing a great injustice."
Argentina Player Refuses to Shake Trump's Hand
Further controversy emerged after the final whistle. Footage from the medal ceremony appeared to show Argentina player Cristian Romero, who had been substituted off during the tense game, refusing to shake Trump's hand. Romero was seen shaking hands with Infantino and Mexican president Claudia Sheinbaum, who stood on either side of Trump, but ignored the US leader entirely.
The incidents have drawn widespread criticism, with many questioning the appropriateness of political figures being so heavily involved in sporting ceremonies. The World Cup final, already a high-stakes event, became a stage for political drama that extended beyond the pitch.
