Donald Trump set for major role at World Cup 2026 final

April 9, 2026 Oliver Obel

The build-up to the 2026 World Cup is increasingly being shaped by more than just football. As the tournament approaches, the intersection of sport and politics is drawing growing scrutiny.

Set to be hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico, the competition will unfold under circumstances that extend well beyond the pitch. Reporting by FourFourTwo has highlighted concerns about the visibility and influence of U.S. President Donald Trump in relation to the event.

One early flashpoint involves Iran’s opening match against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15. The fixture is scheduled just weeks after Trump reportedly issued stark warnings toward Tehran, a development that has added geopolitical tension to the tournament narrative.

FIFA has not indicated any change in its planning. However, the organization has faced criticism in recent months, including over its decision to introduce a FIFA Peace Prize an award that, according to FourFourTwo, was given to Trump in December.

Scrutiny of FIFA leadership

The relationship between FIFA president Gianni Infantino and Trump has become a focal point of discussion. FourFourTwo reports that some figures within football’s governing circles are uneasy about the perceived closeness between the two.

That dynamic drew renewed attention during the Club World Cup final, when Chelsea secured the title. Trump’s prominent role in the post-match ceremony appearing alongside captain Reece James and the squad prompted debate about the appropriateness of his involvement.

Trump later claimed that the original trophy is now housed in the White House, suggesting Chelsea were given a replica. The assertion has been questioned, given that the current version of the trophy has only recently been introduced.

Focus on the final

Attention is also turning to the World Cup final, scheduled for July 19 at MetLife Stadium. Infantino confirmed in remarks at the World Economic Forum in Davos that Trump will join him in presenting the trophy.

“This trophy will be handed out on the 19th of July to the captain of the team who will win the World Cup,” Infantino said. “I will give it together with the President of the United States, the host country. Nobody can touch this trophy.”

He added: “I decided to become FIFA president so I could finally have the privilege and the honor to touch this magic trophy. It's truly the most iconic trophy in the world of sports. It is truly magic.”

Trump has previously described Infantino as “the sort of king of soccer, I guess, in a certain way,” a remark that reflects the unusual overlap between political leadership and football governance.

Broader implications

Observers suggest the 2026 tournament may ultimately be remembered not only for its sporting outcomes but also for the political context surrounding it. The visibility of key figures and the symbolism attached to the event are likely to shape its legacy.

The situation has also prompted renewed questions about FIFA’s leadership and decision-making, particularly as global attention intensifies in the lead-up to kickoff.

Sources: FourFourTwo