EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) — President Donald Trump awarded the World Cup trophy to Spain, the champion of the final against Argentina, held on Sunday. However, Trump suggested that the true victor of soccer's premier tournament might be the United States, stating, "It turned out we were a soccer country, and I think it's going to remain." He made this remark during a FIFA reception at Trump Tower in New York City, highlighting the event's ability to unite people globally.
Sunday’s match marked the culmination of extensive planning and logistical challenges for the White House, which worked alongside co-hosts Canada and Mexico. The event was not without complications, particularly regarding the Trump administration's immigration policies that limited entry for fans from certain World Cup qualifying nations.
Spain secured the tournament victory with a narrow 1-0 win against defending champions Argentina. During the celebration after the match, Trump joined FIFA President Gianni Infantino in presenting the trophy to the Spanish team, amidst cheers and a shower of gold confetti. Trump later expressed pride in the United States' role as a host nation, stating that "all over the world, people have come and they love our country." He described the final match as close and exciting, praising Spain's performance.
Trump arrived at the final via a flyover in the presidential helicopter, Marine One. Before the game, he hinted at a future U.S. bid to host another tournament, suggesting to Infantino that the next tournament involve two host countries. "Announce us again next time," he urged, signaling his desire for the U.S. to continue its involvement in international soccer.
Despite the joyous event, the White House faced criticism from human rights organizations regarding the tournament, coupled with backlash over high ticket prices. In the lead-up to the tournament, Trump had toyed with the idea of relocating games away from cities that did not cooperate with federal immigration regulations. These tensions intensified as authorities argued with FIFA over the costs related to public transit during the event.
As the tournament commenced, concerns over global scrutiny of U.S. visa policies emerged, particularly highlighted by the denial of entry to a well-respected Somali referee. Simultaneously, tensions loomed with Iran as an Iranian team faced obstacles regarding fan and personnel entry into the United States. However, as the matches progressed, discussions shifted towards cultural exchanges, with social media buzzing with accounts of international fans enjoying American culture.
Executive Director of the White House FIFA Task Force, Andrew Giuliani, noted that the administration aimed to keep the focus on the athletic feats displayed during the tournament and the cultural intersections that ensued. Nevertheless, Trump's administration drew controversy with a phone call addressing a contentious refereeing decision that affected Team USA's performance in a match against Bosnia and Herzegovina. The official reviewed the call, later reversing a red card issued to U.S. forward Folarin Balogun, allowing him to play in the next match against Belgium. Trump expressed satisfaction with the decision, indicating it was a victory for U.S. interests.
The U.S. was under immense pressure to host a successful World Cup, given its upcoming hosting obligations for the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles and the 2034 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City. Additionally, the U.S. is expected to be awarded the 2031 Women's World Cup, contingent upon ensuring that the tournament remains inclusive for women athletes, amidst debates surrounding transgender participation.
The geopolitical backdrop remained tense, especially in light of Trump's administration imposing tariffs on Canada and Mexico, which drew criticism. Nevertheless, despite these tensions, collaborative efforts prevailed as both Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney attended the final by Trump's invitation, showcasing soccer’s potential to transcend political barriers.
While Trump customarily presented the trophy to the winning team, he strategically withheld any expressions of favoritism towards either side prior to the match. Notably, Spain's King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia were present at the game, while Argentine President Javier Milei opted to stay home due to superstitions surrounding the match.
