The 'Trump curse' theory has reignited after the United States men's national team was eliminated from the 2026 World Cup with a 4-1 defeat to Belgium in the round of 16. The loss was compounded by a cheeky social media post from the Belgian Football Association, which shared a photo of forward Romelu Lukaku celebrating the fourth goal with the caption: 'Overturn this.' The dig referenced the controversy surrounding American striker Folarin Balogun, whose red card suspension was overturned after U.S. President Donald Trump personally appealed to FIFA President Gianni Infantino, a known associate.
Balogun suspension controversy
Balogun had been suspended for the match after receiving a red card in the USA's round of 32 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina. Trump's intervention led FIFA to suspend the ban, allowing Balogun to play against Belgium. However, his presence did little to change the outcome. Belgium, an ageing and unfancied side, dominated the co-hosts, exposing defensive frailties and scoring four goals. The debate over Balogun's availability quickly faded as the scoreline highlighted deeper issues in the American performance.
The 'Trump curse' in sports
The theory, popular among social media users, suggests that any team or event Trump attends suffers a jinx. While few take it seriously, it has gained traction due to a series of coincidences. In the 2026 NBA Finals, Trump attended Game 3 between the New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs. The Knicks, on a 13-game winning streak, lost 115-111, their only defeat of the series. Some fans performed a 'cleansing' ritual outside Madison Square Garden, with podcast host Kazeem Famuyide posting video of himself burning sage.
In American football, Trump attended a Washington Commanders game against the Detroit Lions in November 2025. The Lions won 44-22, but later lost five of their final eight games and missed the playoffs. Lions wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown celebrated a touchdown with the 'Trump Dance' and later apologised. Former NFL wide receiver Kenny Stills summed up the reaction with the words: 'Trump curse.'
Golf also saw the phenomenon at the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black. Trump attended the opening day as the United States trailed Europe. After the morning session, he told reporters: 'We're going to get it done. One way or another, we'll get it done.' By day's end, the hosts were 5½-2½ behind, eventually losing 15-13. The tournament also saw the PGA of America president apologise for 'disrespectful' chants aimed at Team Europe.
Belgium's social media savvy
Belgium's social media admin capitalised on the curse narrative, posting the 'Overturn this' message within seconds of the final whistle. The post quickly spread, with fans noting the irony of Trump's intervention backfiring. The eight remaining World Cup teams are now wary of Trump declaring support for them, as the curse meme continues to circulate.
According to a spokesperson for the Belgian Football Association, the post was intended as light-hearted banter, not a serious political statement. The incident highlights the intersection of sports, politics, and internet culture in the modern era.
