World

Donald Trump to attend World Cup final, present trophy: Infantino

Al Jazeera · 2026-06-23

AI SUMMARY

• What happened: FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirmed that U.S. President Donald Trump will participate in the trophy presentation ceremony at the World Cup final on July 19, 2026, in East Rutherford, New Jersey. • Why it matters: Trump's involvement highlights the collaboration between FIFA and the U.S. government as the country co-hosts the World Cup alongside Canada and Mexico, marking a significant moment in the tournament's history. • What to watch next: As the World Cup final approaches, attention will focus on the ceremonial aspects of the event, including the trophy presentation and the potential media coverage surrounding Trump's participation.

**Donald Trump to Attend World Cup Final and Present Trophy, Confirms FIFA President Infantino**

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has announced that U.S. President Donald Trump will participate in the trophy presentation ceremony at the upcoming World Cup final. The event is scheduled to take place on July 19, 2026, in East Rutherford, New Jersey. This marks a significant moment as Trump has not yet attended any matches during this year's World Cup.

In a recent interview with Fox News, Infantino expressed enthusiasm about Trump's involvement, stating, “We will be together with the president, enjoying the final, and handing the trophy to the winner – of course, together.” This confirmation highlights the collaboration between FIFA and the U.S. government as the country co-hosts the World Cup alongside Canada and Mexico.

Infantino further clarified that he and Trump would jointly present the trophy at the match, reinforcing the close relationship between FIFA and the U.S. administration during this high-profile event. “Of course. We are together all the time,” he added when asked about the details of the trophy presentation.

Trump's previous involvement in FIFA events includes his participation in the trophy ceremony at the Club World Cup final last year, where he shared the stage with Infantino as Chelsea FC celebrated their victory over Paris Saint-Germain. The trophy presentation at that event saw Trump remain on stage as Chelsea players lifted the trophy, which later made an appearance in the Oval Office.

Despite Trump's high-profile role in the upcoming final, he has yet to attend any matches in this year's tournament. Infantino, on the other hand, has been actively attending games, reportedly aiming to watch up to two matches a day throughout the tournament.

As the World Cup approaches, the anticipation builds not only for the matches but also for the ceremonial aspects, including the presence of prominent figures such as President Trump. The event promises to be a significant occasion in the world of sports, blending the excitement of soccer with the political landscape of the United States.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup marks a historic moment as it will be the first tournament to feature an expanded format with 48 teams, a change from the traditional 32-team setup. This expansion reflects FIFA's commitment to growing the sport globally and increasing accessibility for fans around the world.

As preparations for the final continue, the involvement of high-profile attendees like Trump is expected to draw considerable media attention, further elevating the event's profile. The World Cup final is not only a culmination of the tournament but also a celebration of international unity through sport, with leaders and fans from various nations coming together to witness the crowning of the next world champion.

With just weeks to go until the final, both fans and officials are eager to see how the event unfolds, particularly with the added excitement of Trump's participation in the trophy presentation.

Source: Al Jazeera
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