Trump booed at World Cup final, then lingers on podium with Spain's champions

A single appearance, a loud reception

Donald Trump attended only one of the 104 matches at the 2026 men's World Cup: the final between Spain and Argentina at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. When he stepped onto the pitch for the post-match trophy ceremony, the crowd responded with loud boos and jeers. The US president, 80, sat next to FIFA president Gianni Infantino during the match, which Spain won 1-0. His presence at the final came after he had skipped every other game of the tournament.

Podium gatecrash

After Spain's victory, Trump joined Infantino on the podium to award medals. Once the trophy was handed to Spanish captain Rodri, Infantino attempted to guide Trump away from the champions' celebration. Trump lingered, standing beside the Spanish players as Rodri lifted the trophy. Late-night host Seth Meyers later joked about the moment.

The head of the most corrupt organization on Earth was, like, 'This is a bad look.'

Rodri also appeared to try to usher Trump offstage, prompting Meyers to quip, "OK grandpa, time for bed!" The scene drew comparisons to an uninvited guest at a party.

The Balogun phone call

Trump's relationship with Infantino had already stirred controversy earlier in the tournament. The US president called Infantino after American striker Folarin Balogun received a red card, and the resulting one-match ban was suspended, allowing Balogun to play in the last-16 tie against Belgium. Infantino denied involvement in the decision, but the International Olympic Committee was asked to investigate. Trump later praised Infantino for "another great decision."

Diplomatic frost and war criticism

The final unfolded against a backdrop of diplomatic tension. Earlier in July, Trump had called Spain a "terrible partner in NATO" and said, "I don't want anything to do with Spain. Cut off all trade with Spain, please." His sudden embrace of the Spanish team on the podium struck many as contradictory. Meanwhile, the Independent newspaper argued the US should not host another tournament, citing the American attack on a school in Iran that killed 168 people, mainly children. Iranian striker Mehdi Taremi called the World Cup "a disaster" for his team, which faced entry and exit difficulties.

A disaster World Cup.

At the final, Trump largely ignored Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, focusing instead on Infantino. It was only the second time the three North American leaders had appeared together.

Trump's victory lap

After the match, Trump posted on Truth Social, calling the tournament "the most spectacular World Cup in history, BY FAR!" He thanked law enforcement, Andrew Giuliani, and Infantino, saying the FIFA president had elevated the event "to a level that nobody thought was possible." Trump also floated the idea of hosting another World Cup, suggesting Canada and Mexico be excluded next time.

I had a great idea for Gianni. Announce us again next time. We will be requesting it again immediately.

The next two men's World Cups are already allocated to other nations, and the earliest the US could host again is 2038.