Infantino Explains Trump's Absence from World Cup Matches

FIFA President Gianni Infantino once again highlighted his close relationship with US President Donald Trump. The two were central figures in the World Cup's most controversial moment when a conversation between Infantino and Trump led to the overturning of a suspension for American forward Folarin Balogun. However, this reprieve didn't help the US team, who ultimately lost 4-1 to Belgium in the Round of 16.

The head of world football's governing body confirmed that he expects Trump to present the World Cup trophy next Sunday. Last summer, the US President handed the trophy to Chelsea after the FIFA Club World Cup. He remained on stage as the London club celebrated their triumph, and it wouldn't be a surprise if he did the same this time around.

“I hope he will present the trophy at the final. That has always been the plan, and it's been customary in the past for the president of the host nation to present the trophy alongside the FIFA President. We are in regular contact, speaking almost daily. He's happy and enjoying the tournament, watching the matches on television,” Infantino stated.

Trump has not attended any of the 2026 World Cup matches so far, and Infantino was asked if this was due to security concerns. He responded: “No, no. I suggest he has other commitments. If he were at the stadium, people would ask: ‘What is he doing at the stadium when so many things are happening in the world?’”