Why Trump Has Stayed Away from the World Cup

United States President Donald Trump was widely expected to be a regular presence at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico. However, as the tournament reaches its knockout stages, Trump has yet to attend a single match, despite the US men's national team winning two of their three group games and advancing. This absence has raised questions, especially given his previous enthusiasm for the event and his close ties with FIFA President Gianni Infantino.

Historical Context: Host Leaders at the World Cup

Heads of state of host nations traditionally attend their country's opening match. In 1994, President Bill Clinton spoke at the opening ceremony in Chicago, welcoming the world to the first World Cup held in the United States. More recently, Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani attended Qatar's opening game in 2022, and Vladimir Putin watched Russia's in 2018. Trump's absence from the US opener against Paraguay on June 12 in Los Angeles broke with that tradition. Instead, Secretary of State Marco Rubio represented the administration.

Trump's Relationship with the World Cup

In the lead-up to the tournament, Trump had been vocal in his support. He hailed FIFA's ticket sales, calling it "the most successful World Cup they've ever had." He referenced the event in a speech at a rally on the eve of his presidential inauguration in January 2025. In December 2025, Trump played a central role at the World Cup draw in Washington, D.C., where Infantino awarded him FIFA's inaugural Peace Prize. The two have developed a close relationship, with Infantino visiting both the Oval Office and Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate.

Other Sports Appearances

Trump has been a regular attendee at major US sporting events during his second term, including the Super Bowl in New Orleans, the Club World Cup final last summer, and the opening day of golf's Ryder Cup at Bethpage. His decision to skip the World Cup opener was notable, as he instead hosted a UFC event on the White House lawn two days later, celebrating his 80th birthday and America's 250th birthday.

Expert Analysis: Political Strategy

Federico de Jesus, a political strategist who served as a media director for former President Barack Obama, told BBC Sport that Trump's absence is "not out of character." He noted that "UFC is the sport Trump has cultivated, and with which he has a special relationship." De Jesus added, "Also, look at when he has attended other sports events. He went to the Super Bowl, not regular season games. It's the main event—the World Cup final—where the ratings will be. Expect the same again."

De Jesus contrasted Trump's approach with that of Obama, who he said "would definitely have approached it differently," attending the opening ceremony and being "a gracious host and diplomat." However, he emphasized that Trump is a very different character.

Will Trump Appear Before the Final?

Trump did not attend the US matches against Australia in Seattle or Turkey in Los Angeles. Speculation continues about whether he will appear at the final, scheduled for July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Given his pattern of attending only major events, a final appearance remains possible, but no official confirmation has been made.