United States President Donald Trump will attend the FIFA World Cup 2026 final between Argentina and Spain this Sunday, the White House officially confirmed on Thursday as reported by Reuters. The championship match will take place on July 19, 2026, at the MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Trump’s presence will mark his first in-person appearance at a match during this summer’s tournament, which the United States is co-hosting alongside Canada and Mexico.
What did the White House say about Trump’s attendance?
White House Press Secretary, Karoline Leavitt, formally announced the President’s travel plans during a press conference on Thursday. Leavitt emphasised that the global sporting event has been an immense success for the host nation. In her statement to reporters, Leavitt noted:
“We look forward to the final match on Sunday, and I know the president looks forward to attending. His attendance will cap what has been the most watched, most secure and most successful World Cup in American history.”
Leavitt also praised the overall execution of the tournament, highlighting the welcoming experience provided to international fans who traveled to the United States from across the globe.
Will Trump present the World Cup trophy?
Yes. FIFA President Gianni Infantino had previously confirmed that President Trump will actively participate in the post-match celebrations. Trump is scheduled to walk out onto the pitch to hand over the golden trophy alongside Infantino to either Lionel Messi’s Argentina or the Spanish squad.
Infantino defended the decision against public scrutiny, explaining that it follows a long-standing tradition where the political leader of the host country presents the prize. Trump previously took part in a similar presentation at the exact same New Jersey venue in the summer of 2025, when he stood on stage during Chelsea’s Club World Cup victory ceremony.
Trump’s controversy in the FIFA World Cup 2026
While the President has watched the majority of the games on television from the White House, he has been closely involved behind the scenes. Ahead of the tournament, Trump signed an executive order establishing the White House Task Force on the FIFA World Cup 2026 to coordinate security, transport, and federal logistics across the 11 American host cities.
He also generated headlines earlier in the tournament by personally discussing a red card suspension handed to USMNT striker Folarin Balogun with Infantino, which sparked debate among global football fans before the U.S. squad was ultimately eliminated by Belgium. Sunday’s final will serve as the conclusion to the expanded 104-match tournament.
