US President Donald Trump is set to take centre stage at the FIFA World Cup final on Sunday, where he is expected to present the trophy alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino to the winners of the match between Spain and Argentina. The final, scheduled to take place in New Jersey, will mark Trump’s first attendance at a World Cup fixture and comes after he has already drawn attention during the tournament through his public involvement and comments.

Trump’s presence at the event follows a controversial episode in which he reportedly contacted Infantino to request that FIFA suspend a red card issued to United States striker Folarin Balogun. The request was linked to the player’s possible participation in a last-16 match against Belgium and sparked debate over sporting fairness and political influence. Despite the controversy, Trump has continued to describe the 2026 World Cup as one of the greatest sporting events ever held.

Speaking at a FIFA reception at Trump Tower in New York, Trump praised the tournament’s impact on football’s popularity in the United States. He said the event had helped transform the country into a stronger football nation, where sports such as American football, baseball, and basketball have traditionally dominated. Trump also mentioned that his son Barron is a major football fan and said the sport’s popularity in the US would continue to grow.

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The World Cup final is also expected to bring together several international leaders despite ongoing political disagreements. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez and members of Spain’s royal family are scheduled to attend, even as Trump has recently criticised Madrid over issues including NATO spending and its position on international matters. Leaders from co-host nations Mexico and Canada, including Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, are also expected at the event amid tensions with Washington over trade, immigration, and security issues.

Trump’s appearance will involve extensive security arrangements, including restrictions around the stadium area as he travels from his New Jersey golf club. Beyond the football action, attention is likely to remain on Trump’s role during the ceremony, continuing a pattern of high-profile involvement with major sporting events. He has frequently highlighted his role in bringing the World Cup and the Los Angeles Olympics to the United States, linking major international sporting events with his political legacy.

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