New York: Trump celebrates World Cup as US victory, prepares to present trophy

By Rohan Gupta — 19 July 2026 — 6 min read

World Cup culminates in New York

President Donald Trump is preparing to present the World Cup trophy to the winning team of Sunday’s final between Argentina and Spain. The president views the United States as the true victor of the tournament. He expressed this sentiment on Friday at a FIFA reception held at Trump Tower in New York City, stating, “It turned out we were a soccer country, and I think it’s going to remain.”

The White House has been involved for over a year in managing various logistical challenges for the tournament, which was co-hosted with Canada and Mexico. This event was anticipated to be the largest World Cup in history. The administration had to navigate its strict migration policies, which at times prevented fans from certain qualifying countries from entering the United States.

Concerns were raised by human rights groups, and the tournament also faced criticism regarding high ticket prices. For several months, Trump had considered relocating games from cities that did not cooperate with federal immigration authorities. In the weeks leading up to the tournament, local authorities and FIFA had disagreements over transit costs, which further increased tensions.

As the initial matches were about to commence, the administration continued to face international scrutiny over its visa decisions. One notable instance involved denying entry to a referee from Somalia, despite his acclaimed officiating record. Pressure intensified following a conflict with Iran, which led to the Iranian team’s fans and some support staff being barred from the U.S., resulting in the team being based across the border in Tijuana.

Despite these challenges, the narrative of the World Cup eventually shifted. Social media platforms were filled with stories of football fans globally enjoying American traditions and treats, from beer to ranch dressing. Initial fears regarding the Trump administration, such as the possibility of immigration enforcement raids near game venues, did not materialise.

Andrew Giuliani, the executive director of the White House FIFA Task Force, noted that a primary goal was to ensure discussions focused on the events on the pitch. He indicated that the outcome was even better, with conversations extending beyond athletic achievements to include significant cultural moments.

Controversy and diplomatic efforts

A point of contention arose when President Trump made a phone call to FIFA President Gianni Infantino earlier in the month. During this call, Trump requested a review of a controversial referee decision in the United States‘ match against Bosnia and Herzegovina. The incident involved U.S. star forward Folarin Balogun receiving a red card, which would have prevented him from playing in the subsequent match against Belgium.

Trump stated that he simply asked Infantino to review the decision. FIFA subsequently reversed the red card, citing Article 27 of its disciplinary code, which allowed Balogun to play against Belgium in the Round of 16. Trump remarked to Infantino at the FIFA reception that it was “another great decision,” as it allowed the U.S. to retain a key player, even though the team ultimately lost to Belgium 4-1.

Giuliani defended the administration’s actions, stating they had a “duty” to inquire about the officiating process. The decision to issue the red card had drawn scrutiny due to its reliance on video review and slow-motion replay. He also highlighted the billions in federal funding invested by the Trump administration to ensure the World Cup was not only safe and secure but also an event of integrity that welcomed the world.

The Trump administration was under considerable pressure to ensure the success of the World Cup tournament. This pressure was partly due to the U.S. being scheduled to host the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles and the 2034 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City. The U.S. is also widely expected to be awarded the 2031 Women’s World Cup.

Giuliani mentioned that securing hosting duties for the 2031 Women’s World Cup would involve “ensuring that, in fact, women and only women will play in that 2031 Women’s World Cup.” This statement alludes to the administration’s strong stance against transgender women participating in women’s sports.

Senator Andy Kim, a self-proclaimed World Cup superfan whose home state is hosting Sunday’s final, observed that the tournament’s logistics have largely proceeded smoothly. He noted that despite occasional minor issues, such as transit to games, the overall joy and excitement experienced by people have significantly outweighed any drawbacks. Kim has been closely following the games with his two young sons over recent weeks.

The U.S. also experienced broader tensions with its co-hosts, Canada and Mexico. Trump had previously imposed tariffs on both countries upon his return to the White House and has chosen not to renew a trade agreement among the three nations, setting the stage for new negotiations. On Friday, Trump suggested imposing tariffs on Canada due to wildfires affecting air quality in parts of the U.S., including northern New Jersey, where the World Cup final is being held.

He humorously suggested that FIFA should select the U.S. to host the World Cup again soon, adding, “this time, we’ll leave Mexico and Canada out.” Despite these geopolitical tensions, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney are expected to attend the final at Trump’s invitation, indicating that football can bridge some diplomatic divides.

Sheinbaum confirmed her attendance, stating it was a direct invitation from the President of the United States, and noted that Prime Minister Carney would also be present. Trump, following the customary practice for heads of state hosting the tournament, will present the trophy to the eventual winner. He has not publicly indicated a preferred team for the final.

Spain is known to be a source of irritation for Trump, due to its reluctance to meet NATO defense spending targets and its refusal to permit the U.S. to launch strikes against Iran from its bases. Conversely, Argentine President Javier Milei is favored by the Trump administration, with the U.S. president having previously threatened to reduce aid to Argentina if Milei’s coalition did not succeed in legislative elections.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez plans to attend the game, while Milei will remain at home, citing superstition. The FIFA World Cup 2026 final will feature defending champions Argentina against European champions Spain. Spain secured their spot by defeating France 2-0, while Argentina overcame England with a 2-1 victory, including a stoppage-time winner.

Argentina captain Lionel Messi enters the final leading the Golden Boot race, having moved ahead of France captain Kylian Mbappe after providing two assists in the semi-final win over England.

Source: apnews.com

Rohan Gupta

Sports Reporter