2026 World Cup: Donald Trump, Between Omnipresent Shadow and Stark Indifference | Libération (FR) | en

Donald Trump's shadow looms large over the 2026 World Cup, a tournament he is set to preside over by presenting the trophy to the winner, despite having attended none of the matches. His approach has been characterized by a mix of heavy-handed intervention and a striking indifference to the sport itself. This dynamic has defined his significant, albeit detached, impact on the global event.

The article critiques Trump's engagement, highlighting a perceived disconnect between his political influence and genuine interest in football. While his administration's decisions and pronouncements have undeniably shaped aspects of the tournament, his personal involvement appears minimal. This has led to accusations of using the World Cup primarily as a political stage rather than an athletic spectacle.

Despite his lack of direct engagement with the games, Trump's presence has been a constant undercurrent. His actions and rhetoric have influenced the narrative surrounding the event, creating a peculiar situation where the leader of a host nation plays a prominent role without demonstrating any passion for the competition. This has left many observers questioning the nature of his involvement and its ultimate purpose.