Donald Trump's Presence at the 2026 World Cup Final: Complete Coverage
The 2026 World Cup wrapped up on Sunday in New Jersey, with Donald Trump making a notable appearance. Since securing his second presidential term in 2024, Trump has been spotted at major sporting events including the Super Bowl, Ryder Cup, U.S. Open final, and NBA Finals. Now, he added the World Cup final to that list, partly due to his close ties with FIFA president Gianni Infantino.
The final match saw Spain defeat Argentina at MetLife Stadium, conveniently close for Trump to attend. Below are detailed updates from Trump's attendance during the event.
Highlights of Trump's Attendance at the World Cup Final
- 6:44 p.m.: Trump joined Infantino in presenting the World Cup trophy to Spain, celebrating their tournament victory.
- 6:27 p.m.: Following Spain’s win, Trump and other world leaders gathered on the field for the trophy ceremony.
- 3:18 p.m.: During the game, Trump was seen alongside Infantino holding the World Cup trophy, which he later handed to the champions.
- 2:53 p.m.: Trump sat with Infantino, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, watching the match live at MetLife Stadium.
- 2:45 p.m.: Trump's presence prompted heightened security protocols, marking the final as a National Special Security Event.
- 2:30 p.m.: Marine One landed at MetLife Stadium, signaling Trump's arrival well before kickoff.
- 1:05 p.m.: Trump shared a pregame conversation with Fox sideline reporter Jenny Taft.
- 9:15 a.m.: Trump started his day at his golf course in Bedminster, New Jersey, setting up a short trip to East Rutherford for the match.
Reasons Behind Trump's Attendance
This World Cup final marked the first time since the 1990s the event took place in the United States. Although Trump hadn’t attended any World Cup matches before, it was expected he would be present for this final. He also took part in the post-match trophy presentation.
Trump's involvement with soccer events isn't new; last December, he represented the U.S. during the World Cup draw deciding team groupings. Additionally, he was at MetLife Stadium last summer when Chelsea defeated Paris Saint-Germain at the Club World Cup.
Who Shared the Moment with Trump?
Trump watched the final alongside FIFA president Gianni Infantino, with whom he has developed a strong relationship over recent years as the U.S. prepared to host the 2026 tournament. Infantino visited Trump multiple times during this period.
Other notable attendees sitting with Trump included First Lady Melania Trump, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, Spanish President Pedro Sanchez, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Robert Kraft.
