President Donald Trump had an up-and-down evening at the FIFA Club World Cup final on Sunday. He got both boos and cheers as he joined FIFA president Gianni Infantino on the pitch after Chelsea beat Paris Saint-Germain 3‑0 at MetLife Stadium, just outside New York City.
Trump began the night with applause. He and First Lady Melania arrived at the stadium to applause and cheers. He wore his signature red tie and waved to the crowd.
But the mood shifted quickly. Moments before the trophy ceremony, fans jeered loudly as Trump and Infantino stepped onto the field. The boos happened again when his image showed on the jumbotron during the U.S. national anthem, though the music soon overpowered the sound.
Despite the crowd’s reaction, Trump seemed unfazed. He handed out the Golden Ball award to Cole Palmer and congratulated players with handshakes and pats on the back. He also shook hands with coaches and referees from both teams.
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After presenting awards, Trump called the crowd “tremendous.” He later said, “We had a great time,” during an interview upon arrival at Joint Base Andrews near Washington.
This event marked an anniversary for Trump. It had been one year since he survived an assassination attempt at a rally in Pennsylvania. He used the moment to highlight his plan to boost major soccer events in America.
Trump has openly said he wants this year’s Club World Cup and next year’s World Cup to symbolize what he calls America’s “Golden Age.” He even set up a White House task force to ensure the 2026 tournament—which the U.S. will host with Canada and Mexico—runs smoothly.
Infantino gave Trump public praise. He said Trump “embraced immediately the importance of the FIFA Club World Cup, and of course of the World Cup next year.” He also joked that Trump “certainly loves as well the trophy.”
Infantino added that Trump’s family connection helped build his love of soccer. He said Trump told him that he had a soccer goal in the White House garden because his son Barron likes the sport. Infantino noted that Trump also played soccer in school.
But Trump’s appearance wasn’t just about sports. He drew criticism for mixing politics with soccer. At a June visit with Juventus players, he spoke about transgender athletes in sports before asking “Could a woman make your team, fellas?” Some found the moment awkward and out of place.
Plans for his immigration policy also caused concern. Some worry the hardline stance under Trump could discourage international fans from coming to the U.S. in 2026. Vice President JD Vance said fans would be “welcome to come… but when the time is up, they will have to go home.”
Featured image via Screengrab
