FIFA Ready to Let Donald Trump Hand Over World Cup Trophy at 2026 Final

US President Donald Trump is likely to play a prominent role at the FIFA World Cup 2026 final, with reports indicating that FIFA has no objection to him presenting the trophy directly to the winning captain and potentially remaining on the podium during the celebrations.

According to talkSPORT, Trump has already been informed that FIFA would like him to hand over the trophy to the tournament winners. The move follows his involvement in a similar capacity during the FIFA Club World Cup trophy presentation.

The World Cup final is scheduled to take place at MetLife Stadium on July 19, with officials from Mexico and Canada also expected to be invited to attend the closing ceremony.

What Happened at the Club World Cup?

Trump attracted widespread attention during the Club World Cup trophy ceremony when he remained on the podium alongside Chelsea captain Reece James as the team celebrated its triumph.

The unusual moment quickly became a talking point among football fans and observers. Chelsea forward Cole Palmer appeared visibly puzzled by Trump's presence during the trophy lift.

Meanwhile, FIFA president Gianni Infantino initially appeared to guide Trump away from the centre of the celebrations before later encouraging him to remain on stage.

The incident sparked debate about protocol and the role of political leaders in major sporting celebrations.

How Does FIFA's Traditional Trophy Presentation Work?

Under FIFA's standard protocol, the World Cup trophy is typically placed on a plinth before the presentation ceremony begins.

The winning team usually carries the trophy onto the stage, where medals are distributed and the captain eventually lifts the iconic prize in front of teammates, officials and supporters.

The ceremony is designed to place the spotlight firmly on the victorious players and coaching staff.

Could Trump Stay on Stage During the Trophy Lift?

According to talkSPORT, FIFA is prepared to allow Trump to take part in the trophy presentation and even remain on the podium if he chooses.

Sources indicate that FIFA will ultimately leave it to Trump's discretion whether he remains with the winning team during the trophy lift or stands alongside officials during the ceremony.

As per talkSPORT, Trump has been given a license to join the World Cup winners in their trophy lift, as he did at the Club World Cup.

If that happens, it would mark one of the most high-profile appearances by a sitting US president during a FIFA World Cup trophy ceremony.

Will Trump Attend the World Cup Final?

Trump did not attend the US men's national team's opening victory over Paraguay due to a scheduling conflict.

However, he is expected to be present at the FIFA World Cup final at MetLife Stadium on July 19, where his role in the trophy ceremony could once again place him at the centre of global attention.

With the United States hosting the tournament alongside Canada and Mexico, the final is expected to draw significant political and sporting interest from around the world.

(With inputs from ANI)