Trump to Miss US's First Match in 2026 World Cup

President Donald Trump is reportedly not planning to attend the U.S. men's national team's opening match in the 2026 World Cup, according to multiple U.S. media outlets.

The U.S. team is scheduled to face Paraguay at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, on the morning of June 13, 2026. Neither the White House nor the U.S. State Department has officially confirmed or denied the reports regarding Trump's absence from the tournament's opening game on home soil.

Despite the president's reported non-attendance, the U.S. government will send a high-level delegation. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to lead the official government delegation to the match in Los Angeles. His presence is not solely for the sporting event; Rubio is also scheduled for bilateral meetings with Paraguayan President Santiago Pena.

These discussions are expected to cover strategic issues including regional security, strengthening trade relations, and exploring investment opportunities between the two nations. Cooperation in the technology sector is also on the agenda, given the significant potential both countries hold in this field. The 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, marks the largest tournament in football history, featuring 48 teams and 104 matches. SoFi Stadium is one of the primary venues, hosting two group stage matches for the U.S. team, who will also play Australia and Turkey in Group A.