US President Donald Trump will attend the World Cup final on Sunday night in New York, where Spain will face Argentina for the championship. The White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed the 80-year-old president's presence, though his involvement in the trophy presentation remains uncertain.
Trump’s Role in the Tournament
Trump played a significant role in the build-up to the tournament hosted across the USA, Canada, and Mexico, but he has not attended any games so far. Despite his absence, he has made headlines during the World Cup, including contacting FIFA president Gianni Infantino about a red card received by US star Folarin Balogun in the round of 32 match against Bosnia & Herzegovina. Balogun's ban was later suspended, allowing him to play in the round of 16 against Belgium, which the US lost 4-1.
FIFA’s Stance on Trophy Presentation
Last month, it was reported that FIFA had no objections to Trump being on stage during the trophy presentation, despite it breaking FIFA protocol. If he decides to participate, it would repeat the awkward situation at the Club World Cup, where Trump presented the trophy to Chelsea captain Reece James but remained on stage during the celebration. James recalled, "They told me that he was going to present the trophy and then exit the stage, and I thought that he was going to exit the stage, but he wanted to stay."
Infantino’s Confirmation
Infantino, who awarded Trump FIFA's inaugural Peace Prize in December during the World Cup draw, confirmed the plan for Trump's involvement. Speaking to Blue Sport, he said, "Hopefully we'll present the trophy together in the final. That's always been the plan - and that's how it's always been done in the past - for the president of the country hosting the final to present the trophy together with the FIFA president."
Final Match Details
Spain secured their place in the final with a 2-0 win over France, while Argentina completed a 2-1 comeback victory against England in the semi-finals. Before the final, France and England will compete in the third-place play-off on Saturday night at the Miami Stadium.
