President Donald Trump refused to leave the podium after presenting the World Cup trophy to tournament winners Spain, hijacking their victory celebration. The Spanish team defeated defending champions Argentina in extra time, with Ferran Torres netting the opening goal after Argentina were reduced to 10 men when Enzo Fernandez received a red card in the 93rd minute.
Trump's Interference During Trophy Presentation
After their triumph, Spain ascended the podium individually to collect their medals before the US President and FIFA President Gianni Infantino presented the trophy to the victors. Yet as Trump shook hands with players and pumped his fists in the air, he commandeered the occasion, refusing to exit the stand. Infantino tried to guide a lost-looking Trump away from the squad, as he continued hovering on the right-hand side of the team, stealing their moment of celebration.
The incident came as little shock given the US president had also breached protocol during the Club World Cup celebrations in 2025. Last July, he left players confused when he chose to stick with the Chelsea squad as they lifted the trophy at the MetLife Stadium. Footage from last summer's celebrations revealed officials attempting to remove Trump, including appeals reportedly made by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who stood beside him at one stage.
Similar Incident at Club World Cup
In a similar fashion this year, Infantino found himself tasked with steering Trump away from the champions to enable them to lift the trophy. Infantino runs across the front of the team before guiding the president to the left to make his exit, yet Trump stands his ground as Spain lift the silverware.
Upon stepping onto the pitch for the ceremony, Trump was met with loud jeers from the crowd, marking the second occasion during the final that he faced such a reception. Earlier in the match, cameras cut to the president watching proceedings alongside Infantino in a suite, and as he waved, boos and whistles rang out around the stadium. He courted further controversy when he was subsequently spotted in the suite during the first half touching the World Cup trophy.
