New York: Trump celebrates World Cup as US victory ahead of trophy presentation

By Aditya Rao — 19 July 2026 — 5 min read

President Donald Trump is preparing to present the World Cup trophy to the winning team of Sunday’s final between Argentina and Spain. Speaking at a FIFA reception at Trump Tower in New York City on Friday, Trump characterised the tournament as a victory for the United States, stating, “It turned out we were a soccer country, and I think it’s going to remain.” He also noted that the event has brought people together globally.

The White House has managed the logistical challenges of hosting the tournament alongside co-hosts Canada and Mexico for over a year. This event is considered to be the largest World Cup in history. The administration had to navigate its strict migration policies, which at times prevented fans from certain World Cup qualifier countries from entering the United States.

Concerns were raised by human rights groups, and the tournament faced criticism regarding high ticket prices. For several months, Trump reportedly considered moving games from cities that did not cooperate with federal immigration authorities. In the weeks leading up to the tournament, local authorities and FIFA had disagreements over transit costs, which increased tensions.

As the initial games were set to begin, the administration faced international scrutiny for its visa decisions. One such instance involved denying entry to a referee from Somalia, who had received recognition for his officiating. The pressure intensified following Trump’s actions regarding Iran, which led to the Iranian team’s fans and some support staff being barred from the U.S., resulting in the team being based in Tijuana, across the border.

Despite these challenges, the narrative of the World Cup shifted. Social media platforms were filled with stories of football enthusiasts from various countries enjoying American culture, including local beverages and food. Some initial concerns about the Trump administration, such as the possibility of immigration enforcement actions near game venues, did not materialise.

Andrew Giuliani, the executive director of the White House FIFA Task Force, mentioned in an interview that a key objective was for discussions to focus on the events on the pitch. He added that the outcome was even better, with conversations extending beyond athletic achievements to include significant cultural moments.

Controversy and Diplomatic Engagements

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

Trump stated that he simply asked Infantino to review the decision. FIFA subsequently overturned the red card, citing Article 27 of its disciplinary code. Trump later told Infantino at the FIFA reception on Friday that he had made “another great decision,” as it allowed the U.S. to retain a key player, even though the team ultimately lost to Belgium 4-1 in the Round of 16.

Giuliani maintained that the administration had a responsibility to question and voice concerns about the officiating process, particularly given the use of video review and slow-motion replay for the red card decision. He highlighted that the Trump administration invested billions in federal funding to ensure the World Cup was not only safe and secure, and welcoming to the world, but also an event of integrity.

The Trump administration was under considerable pressure to ensure the success of the 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 widely expected to be awarded the 2031 Women’s World Cup.

Giuliani noted that securing hosting duties for the 2031 Women’s World Cup would involve “ensuring that, in fact, women and only women will play in that 2031 Women’s World Cup.” This statement alludes to the Trump administration’s strong stance against transgender women participating in women’s sports.

Senator Andy Kim, a self-proclaimed World Cup enthusiast whose home state is hosting Sunday’s final, observed that the tournament’s logistics have mostly proceeded smoothly, apart from occasional issues such as transit to the games. He added that the joy and excitement among people have significantly outweighed any drawbacks.

International Relations and Future Prospects

The U.S. also experienced broader tensions with its World Cup co-hosts, Canada and Mexico. Trump announced significant tariffs on both countries upon his return to the White House and has opted not to renew a trade agreement among the three nations, setting the stage for new negotiations.

On Friday, Trump reportedly 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. He also joked that FIFA should select the U.S. to host the World Cup again soon, suggesting that “this time, we’ll leave Mexico and Canada out.”

Despite these geopolitical tensions, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney are planning to attend the final at Trump’s invitation. Sheinbaum confirmed her attendance, stating it was a direct invitation from the U.S. President, and noted that Prime Minister Carney would also be present.

Trump is expected to present the trophy to the eventual winner, a customary role for heads of state hosting the tournament. He has not publicly indicated a preferred team. Spain is considered an irritant to Trump due to its reluctance to meet NATO defence spending targets and its refusal to allow the U.S. to launch strikes against Iran from its bases.

Conversely, Argentine President Javier Milei is viewed favourably by the Trump administration. Trump had reportedly threatened to reduce 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 not be present, citing superstition.

The final will feature defending champions Argentina against European champions Spain. Spain secured its place 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.

Source: apnews.com