Donald Trump refuses to leave stage as Spain lift World Cup: Watch

US President Donald Trump was greeted with loud boos from sections of the crowd before Sunday’s World Cup trophy presentation before being later asked to stand down as Spain celebrated their triumph over Argentina.

Trump entered the pitch alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino at the New York New Jersey Stadium for a post-match ceremony after Spain beat defending champions Argentina 1-0 after extra time. Before the presentation, Infantino announced that Trump would present the World Cup trophy to the winning captain.

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There were boos from the stands as the pair emerged onto the pitch. The reaction died down as the medal ceremony got under way, with Trump and Infantino presenting medals to players and coaches before the trophy was presented.

Trump then presented the iconic World Cup trophy to Spain captain Rodrigo, who gathered his team-mates around him for the traditional lifting of the trophy. However, the American president initially remained standing among the celebrating players before officials gestured for him to step back, allowing Rodrigo and his teammates to enjoy the moment unhindered.

The brief exchange quickly went viral on social media, and online videos quickly went viral of both the booing and the moment the trophy was lifted.

The incident drew comparisons to the FIFA Club World Cup final earlier this year, when Trump remained on stage alongside the Chelsea players after presenting the trophy. This time, however, World Cup protocol saw him withdraw before Spain lifted football’s biggest prize.

Spain secured their second World Cup title thanks to Ferran Torres’ extra-time winner after a tense and physical final. Argentina finished the game with 10 men after Enzo Fernandez was sent off for a second yellow card in stoppage time, ending Lionel Messi’s bid to retain the trophy they won four years ago.

While Spain celebrated their historic triumph, much of the immediate post-match discussion focused on the trophy presentation, where the crowd’s reaction to Trump and his brief appearance during the celebrations became one of the most talked about moments of the night.

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Issued by:

Amar Panicker

Published on:

20 Jul 2026 04:27 IST