United States President Donald Trump could become a central figure in the 2026 FIFA World Cup trophy presentation after receiving approval to deviate from the tournament’s long-established protocol.
According to reports, FIFA has no objection to Trump personally handing the World Cup trophy to the victorious captain and potentially joining the winning team during their celebrations at the final scheduled for July 19 at the MetLife Stadium.
The move would mirror scenes witnessed at last year’s FIFA Club World Cup, when Trump remained alongside Chelsea captain Reece James during the trophy lift after the English club’s triumph. The unusual moment drew widespread attention, with players appearing surprised as FIFA President Gianni Infantino initially attempted to usher the American leader away before allowing him to remain at the centre of the celebrations.
Traditionally, FIFA protocol dictates that the trophy is placed on a plinth before a member of the winning team carries it onto the podium for the captain to lift. However, sources indicate that FIFA is prepared to leave the final decision to Trump’s discretion, including whether he joins the players on stage or watches from the designated area reserved for dignitaries and executives.
Trump, who missed the United States’ opening World Cup match against Paraguay due to scheduling commitments, is nevertheless expected to attend the tournament’s showpiece event. White House insiders have also suggested that the president could attend additional matches, depending on his schedule.
The development adds another layer of intrigue to a World Cup already surrounded by debate and controversy. Fans have voiced concerns over soaring ticket prices and expensive stadium refreshments, while FIFA’s expanded 48-team format has continued to divide opinion within the football community.
The tournament has also faced scrutiny over the exclusion of Somali referee Omar Artan from entering the United States despite reportedly holding a valid visa. The decision sparked widespread criticism, although White House Task Force Executive Director Andrew Giuliani defended the action, insisting U.S. authorities acted appropriately based on information available to them.
As the football world counts down to the World Cup final, attention may not only be focused on who lifts the famous trophy, but also on who stands beside the champions when football’s biggest prize is presented.