Donald Trump sparks reaction during World Cup trophy presentation
The U.S. president drew a mixed reception from fans during the 2026 FIFA World Cup final as he walked onto the field
Donald Trump drew a mixed reaction from the crowd at the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, with audible boos erupting as the U.S. president walked onto the field alongside FIFA president Gianni Infantino for the post-match trophy presentation.
The moment unfolded at New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, after Spain secured a 1-0 victory over Argentina in extra time to lift the World Cup trophy.
As Trump and Infantino stepped onto the pitch to present medals and the championship trophy, boos could be heard from sections of the stadium.
Trump attended the final after arriving aboard Marine One roughly 45 minutes before kickoff.
He watched the match from a VIP suite with Infantino, joined by several world leaders, including Spain's King Felipe VI, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum.
The president's appearance came weeks after he claimed he had personally intervened in a FIFA disciplinary decision involving U.S. striker Folarin Balogun.
Trump said he contacted Infantino following Balogun's controversial red card, which FIFA later overturned, allowing the forward to play in the United States' Round of 16 match against Belgium.
The decision sparked criticism from football fans and observers, with The New York Times reporting that it marked FIFA's first reversal of a red card since 1962. The United States ultimately lost to Belgium 4-1 and exited the tournament.
Despite the crowd's reaction during the trophy ceremony, the focus of the evening remained on Spain's World Cup triumph as the team celebrated its second title on the global stage.
