Why Donald Trump Hasn’t Attended a 2026 World Cup Match Yet
Despite receiving FIFA’s inaugural Peace Prize at the 2026 World Cup finals draw in Washington DC last year, Donald Trump has yet to attend a single match at the tournament.
The former US President is still expected to present the World Cup trophy at the final in New Jersey on July 19, but his absence throughout the group stage has raised questions among supporters and observers.
According to a report from GiveMeSport, citing information from The Telegraph, Trump’s busy schedule away from football is the main reason behind his non-attendance.
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Trump’s focus remains on national celebrations
As reported by GiveMeSport, Trump is currently concentrating on preparations for the United States’ major Independence Day celebrations. This year’s July 4 festivities carry additional significance as the country marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Alongside those commitments, Trump is also reportedly preparing for celebrations surrounding his upcoming 80th birthday, leaving little room in his schedule for World Cup matches.
A source quoted by The Telegraph suggested that the tournament “just isn’t on his radar at the moment” due to those competing priorities.
However, there is reportedly one scenario in which Trump could attend a match before the final. According to GiveMeSport’s report, he would consider making an appearance if the United States men’s national team reaches the semi-finals, scheduled to take place in Dallas on July 14.
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The report also claims that Trump may avoid attending matches involving four English-speaking nations and notes that some supporters have directed x-rated chants toward him during the tournament.
FIFA’s strong support for Trump
Trump’s relationship with FIFA President Gianni Infantino has been highly visible in the build-up to the World Cup.
During the finals draw ceremony, Infantino presented Trump with FIFA’s inaugural Peace Prize and praised his leadership in a speech reported by GiveMeSport.
Infantino said: “This is what we want from a leader; a leader that cares about the people. We want to live in a safe world, in a safe environment. We want to unite – that’s what we do here today, that’s what we’ll do at the World Cup.”
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The FIFA president went on to commend Trump’s efforts and offered the support of the global football community.
A possible appearance at the final
Despite Trump’s absence so far, the possibility remains that his first World Cup appearance will come on the tournament’s biggest stage.
Andrew Giuliani, head of the White House World Cup taskforce, hinted that the former president’s plans remain deliberately unclear.
Speaking about Trump’s schedule, Giuliani said: “He likes a good cliffhanger. He likes to leave people watching, so all I can tell you is ‘keep tuned in’.”
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With the knockout rounds approaching, attention will now turn to whether the US can make a deep run in the competition. If they reach the semi-finals, Trump could make an earlier appearance. Otherwise, fans may have to wait until the final in New Jersey to see him involved in the tournament.
