Donald Trump is expected to break FIFA protocol and join the World Cup winners on stage in celebration when they lift the trophy next month. The President of the United States was a looming presence during Chelsea's trophy celebrations in the Club World Cup last year – a competition that served as a large-scale dress rehearsal for this summer's tournament.
Trump handed the trophy to Chelsea captain Reece James and remained on stage for the trophy lift – scenes that could unfold again at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 19. He remained front and centre on stage that night last year – much to the bemusement of Cole Palmer, who was spotted asking exactly why the President was still very much in the thick of a Chelsea party.
FIFA's Protocol and Trump's Decision
TalkSport reports that FIFA wants Trump to hand the World Cup trophy directly to the winning captain on July 19 and remain on stage for the celebrations, with representatives from co-hosts Mexico and Canada also to be invited. The decision whether to stay on stage during the trophy lift or remain with other officials will be down to Trump. However, the report states that White House insiders believe he will choose to celebrate with the winners again.
Trump has so far not been present at this summer's tournament. Each host nation held its own opening ceremony on Thursday and Friday, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio leading the official U.S. delegation ahead of the United States' opening group match against Paraguay. Scheduling conflicts were the reason for the no-show, with Trump involved at UFC Freedom 250 over the weekend – the huge MMA event which took place on the lawn of the White House. Trump is expected to appear at games before the final.
