New York: Trump celebrates World Cup as US victory, prepares to present trophy

By Karan Malhotra — 19 July 2026 — 5 min read

Trump’s perspective on the World Cup

President Donald Trump is preparing to present the World Cup trophy to the winning team in Sunday’s final between Argentina and Spain. However, he views the United States as the true victor of the tournament. Speaking at a FIFA reception at Trump Tower in New York City on Friday, Trump remarked that the country had become a “soccer country” and believed it would remain so, adding that the event had “brought the world together.” He praised the FIFA World Cup 2026 as “a tournament like no other,” highlighting its memorable moments and intense competition.

The White House navigated numerous logistical challenges over more than a year, collaborating with co-hosts Canada and Mexico for what was anticipated to be the largest World Cup in history. This included balancing the administration’s strict migration policies, which had prevented fans from certain qualifier countries from entering the United States. The administration also faced warnings from human rights organizations and criticism regarding high ticket prices. For several months, Trump had considered moving games from cities that did not cooperate with federal immigration authorities, and in the weeks leading up to the tournament, local authorities and FIFA had disagreements over transit costs.

As the initial games were about to commence, the administration faced global scrutiny for its visa decisions, such as denying entry to a referee from Somalia who had been recognized for his officiating. Pressure intensified following a conflict with Iran, which resulted in the Iranian team’s fans and some support staff being barred from the U.S., leading the team to be based in Tijuana, across the border.

Shifting narratives and controversies

Despite early challenges, the broader narrative of the World Cup evolved. Social media platforms were filled with stories of football fans from across the globe enjoying American traditions and treats, including beer and ranch dressing. Initial concerns about the Trump administration, such as the possibility of immigration enforcement raids near game venues, did not materialize.

Andrew Giuliani, the executive director of the White House FIFA Task Force, noted that a key objective was for discussions to focus on events on the pitch. He stated that the outcome was even better, with conversations extending beyond athletic achievements to include cultural moments. Giuliani also mentioned that the administration had invested billions in federal funding to ensure the World Cup was a secure and welcoming event, characterized by integrity.

However, Trump did generate controversy earlier this month with a phone call to FIFA chief Gianni Infantino. During the call, Trump requested a review of a referee’s decision in the US team’s match against Bosnia and Herzegovina. The referee had issued a red card to US star forward Folarin Balogun, which would have prevented him from playing in the subsequent match against Belgium.

Trump stated he merely asked Infantino to review the call. FIFA subsequently reversed the decision, citing Article 27 of its disciplinary code, which allowed Balogun to play against Belgium in the Round of 16. Trump later told Infantino at the FIFA reception that he had made “another great decision,” as it allowed the US to retain a key player, even though the team ultimately lost to Belgium 4-1. Giuliani defended the administration’s actions, stating they had a “duty” to question and raise concerns about the officiating process, particularly given the use of video review and slow-motion replay for the red card decision.

The United States also faced broader tensions with its co-hosts, Canada and Mexico. Trump had announced tariffs on both countries upon his return to the White House and chose not to renew a trade pact among the three nations, initiating a new period of negotiations. On Friday, Trump threatened to impose tariffs on Canada due to its wildfires, which have affected air quality in parts of the U.S., including northern New Jersey, where the World Cup final is being held.

Future hosting and international relations

During the reception, Trump jokingly suggested that FIFA should choose the United States to host the World Cup again soon, adding, “this time, we’ll leave Mexico and Canada out.” He also laughed about Infantino’s idea of a future tournament jointly hosted by the United States and China, suggesting it would offer a “nice short flight in between games” for players.

The Trump administration was under significant pressure to ensure a successful World Cup tournament, as the U.S. is scheduled to host the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles and the 2034 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City. The U.S. is also largely expected to be awarded the 2031 Women’s World Cup. Giuliani noted that part of securing these hosting duties would involve “ensuring that, in fact, women and only women will play in that 2031 Women’s World Cup,” referencing the administration’s stance on transgender women’s participation in women’s sports.

Despite geopolitical tensions, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney are expected to attend the final at Trump’s request, signaling that football can bridge some diplomatic divides. Sheinbaum confirmed her attendance, stating she received a direct invitation from the President of the United States. Senator Andy Kim, a self-proclaimed World Cup superfan whose home state is hosting the final, observed that the tournament’s logistics have mostly proceeded smoothly, with only minor issues such as transit to the games.

Trump, following the custom for heads of state hosting the tournament, will present the trophy to the eventual winner. He has not publicly indicated a preferred team. Spain is considered an irritant to Trump due to its reluctance to meet NATO defense spending targets and its refusal to allow the U.S. to launch strikes against Iran from its bases. In contrast, Argentine President Javier Milei is favored by the Trump administration, with Trump having reportedly threatened to cut aid to Argentina if Milei’s coalition did not succeed in legislative elections. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez plans to attend the game, while Milei will remain at home, citing superstition.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 final will feature defending champions Argentina against European champions Spain. Spain secured its spot in the title match by defeating France 2-0, while Argentina advanced after a 2-1 comeback victory against England with a stoppage-time winner. Argentina captain Lionel Messi leads the Golden Boot race, having moved ahead of France captain Kylian Mbappe after providing two assists in the semi-final win over England.