Donald Trump refused to step away from the podium after presenting the World Cup trophy to tournament victors Spain, overshadowing their celebratory moment. The incident occurred during the 2026 World Cup final, where Spain defeated the reigning champions Argentina in extra time.
Spain's Victory and Trophy Ceremony
Ferran Torres netted the opening goal after Argentina were reduced to 10 men when Enzo Fernandez received a red card in the 93rd minute. After their triumph, Spain approached the podium individually to collect their medals before the US President and FIFA President Gianni Infantino presented the trophy to the victors.
Yet as Trump shook players' hands and thrust his fists skyward, he commandeered the occasion, declining to leave the stage. Infantino tried to shepherd a seemingly bewildered Trump away from the squad, as he continued hovering on the right-hand side of the team, overshadowing their celebratory moment.
Previous Protocol Breaches
The incident came as little shock given the US president had also breached protocol during the Club World Cup festivities in 2025. Last July, he left players baffled when he opted to remain with the Chelsea squad as they hoisted the trophy at the MetLife Stadium.
Footage from last summer's celebrations captured officials attempting to persuade Trump to depart, including appeals reportedly made by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who stood alongside him at one stage. This year proved no different, with Infantino again tasked with coaxing Trump away from the champions to enable them to raise the trophy.
Jeers and Controversy
When Trump walked onto the pitch for the ceremony, he was met with loud jeers from supporters — the second time during the final. Earlier in the match, cameras cut to the president, who was watching the game alongside Infantino in a suite, and as he waved, boos and whistles echoed around the stadium. He also courted further controversy when footage later showed him in the suite during the first half handling the World Cup trophy.
