The White House has confirmed that President Donald Trump will attend the 2026 World Cup final on Sunday, where he is expected to present the trophy to the winning team. Press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on Thursday: "We look forward to the final match on Sunday, and I know the president looks forward to attending. This is a fitting conclusion to a tournament that showcased America's ability to host the world on the grandest stage."
Trump's Role in Trophy Presentation
FIFA president Gianni Infantino confirmed plans for Trump to hand over the World Cup trophy. "That's always been the plan," Infantino said. "That's how it's always been done in the past – the president of the country where the final is held presents the trophy together with the FIFA president." This would mark Trump's second high-profile trophy presentation; last summer, he presented Chelsea with the Club World Cup trophy, an event that went viral after he refused to leave the stage and was booed by the crowd.
Trump's Previous Involvement in the Tournament
Despite being a well-known sports fan, Trump has largely avoided attending matches during the 2026 World Cup, including any of the United States' five games before their last-16 exit. However, he has intervened off the pitch. Before the tournament, he threatened to strip host stadiums in Democrat-run cities of their matches. He also made calls to FIFA before USMNT striker Folarin Balogun's one-match ban was suspended ahead of the last-16. FIFA president Infantino faced calls to resign after the incident, given his close personal relationship with Trump.
World Cup Final Details
The 2026 World Cup final will see Spain face Argentina. While many heads of state and dignitaries are expected to attend, Argentina president Javier Milei will be absent. Trump's attendance adds a layer of political and diplomatic interest to the event, which concludes a month of action across the United States.
