DistantNews
Support us
🇰🇷 South Korea /Sports

FIFA completely edits out 'uninvited guest' Trump; Netizens cheer 'refreshing'

From Hankyoreh · () Korean

Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Outcome reported
  • FIFA controversially edited photos from the World Cup final ceremony, removing former US President Donald Trump.
  • Trump had drawn criticism for overstaying his welcome on the podium during the trophy presentation, lingering long after handing over the award.
  • The move by FIFA was met with approval by many internet users who found Trump's behavior inappropriate.

The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) has sparked online discussion by digitally removing former U.S. President Donald Trump from official photographs of the 2026 World Cup final trophy ceremony. The decision came after Trump faced criticism for lingering on the podium during Spain's victory celebration, appearing to overshadow the team's moment.

During the ceremony, Trump presented the trophy to Spanish captain Rodri. However, he remained on the stage long after the presentation, continuing to stand among the celebrating players as they lifted the trophy. FIFA President Gianni Infantino eventually escorted Trump off the stage. International media widely reported on the incident, with some suggesting Trump's actions were an attempt to detract from Spain's triumph.

Well cut those idiots (Trump and Infantino) who disgraced this tournament from day one. Thank you.

— Internet UserComment on X reacting to FIFA's edited photos.

FIFA's official X (formerly Twitter) account posted photos of the Spanish team celebrating, but Trump was conspicuously absent from the images. While his presence was edited out, subtle traces remained in some photos, such as a sliver of his shoe heel and a shadow. Similarly, other official accounts, including the World Cup's X account and the Spanish national team's account, also posted images without Trump.

Thank you for removing the idiot. He was embarrassing.

— Internet UserComment on X reacting to FIFA's edited photos.

In contrast, the White House later released multiple photos showing Trump on the podium with the Spanish players. The editing by FIFA, however, resonated positively with many international internet users. Comments on social media platforms expressed gratitude for Trump's removal, with users calling him an "uninvited guest" and a "disgrace."

This incident echoes a similar situation in July of the previous year when Trump was criticized for participating in the trophy ceremony of the FIFA Club World Cup held in the United States, standing among the winning Chelsea players.

Thank you for deleting the annoying American president.

— Internet UserComment on X reacting to FIFA's edited photos.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Hankyoreh in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

More Stories

From Our Blog