The 45th and 47th U.S. President welcomed FIFA president Gianni Infantino to the Oval Office for a ceremonial draw for the 2026 Men’s World Cup — and in classic Trump fashion, the trophy ended up looking like it had a new home: his desk.
Trump vs. the Trophy
Infantino brought the iconic FIFA World Cup trophy to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, handing it over to Trump with a grin.
“This is only for winners,” Infantino told the former president.
Trump, never one to miss a photo-op, immediately quipped:
“Can I keep it?! We’re not giving it back! We’re not giving it back!”
He added:
“That’s a beautiful piece of gold, I will say. That’s beautiful!”
The playful exchange had cameras clicking as Trump cradled the gleaming trophy like it was his personal award.
First Ticket to the Final
As part of the ceremony, Infantino handed Trump the very first ticket to the 2026 World Cup Final, numbered 45/47 — a cheeky nod to Trump’s presidential terms.
The tournament itself will be held across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, 2026, and while the U.S. men’s team has never lifted the trophy, Trump joked that he might suit up for the squad himself.
“If they need me, I’ll play,” Trump said, before praising his son Barron as a talented athlete — despite noting that at 6’9”, soccer might not be his ideal sport.
The 2026 World Cup: U.S., Canada, and Mexico Unite
The 2026 tournament promises to be historic, as it’s the first time three countries will co-host the event. Soccer fans around the globe will be watching closely, especially in the U.S., where the men’s team hopes to make history.
And as for Trump … well, given his antics in the Oval Office, some might wonder if he’ll try to “borrow” the trophy again once the champions lift it.
⚽ Your Take: Would you let Trump hold the World Cup trophy for a day? Or is this one photo-op too many? Comment below!
Stay with TPR for all the latest celebrity sports moments, political stunts, and behind-the-scenes World Cup coverage.