Trump to attend World Cup final, White House says

U.S. President Donald Trump is set to attend the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, the White House announced Thursday. This appearance will mark his first at the tournament, saving his presence for the grand finale.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters that Trump's attendance "will cap what has been the most watched, most secure, and most successful World Cup in American history." She described the event as a "fitting conclusion to a tournament that showcased America's ability to host the world on the grandest stage." Trump is also scheduled to attend a reception for FIFA, the sport's global governing body, at Trump Tower in New York on Friday.

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His attendance will cap what has been the most watched, most secure, and most successful World Cup in American history.

While FIFA President Gianni Infantino had previously indicated Trump would attend and present the trophy, the White House confirmation came later. Leavitt stated she did not know whether Trump would support Argentina or Spain. Trump's involvement in the tournament has not been without controversy; he previously asked Infantino to review a red card decision for U.S. striker Folarin Balogun, which FIFA subsequently suspended for the player's next match.

Trump has consistently claimed credit for the U.S. securing the right to co-host the 2026 World Cup alongside Canada and Mexico, a decision made during his first term. His relationship with Infantino has been notably close, with the FIFA president awarding Trump a special peace prize last year. The presentation of the World Cup trophy follows a previous incident where Trump presented the Club World Cup trophy to Chelsea, lingering on the stage during their celebrations.

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This is a fitting conclusion to a tournament that showcased America's ability to host the world on the grandest stage.