Spain’s World Cup Celebration Photos Omit Donald Trump

Forty-eight teams entered the 2026 World Cup, but by Sunday night, only Spain stood on stage at MetLife Stadium with the trophy. The presentation saw FIFA president Gianni Infantino and U.S. president Donald Trump beside the podium as Spain basked in its tournament victory.

Photos from the event often showed both Infantino and Trump, yet Spain’s official social media posts chose to highlight just the team, leaving out the two figures entirely.

Trump’s Role in the Trophy Presentation

During the ceremony, Trump and Infantino handed the World Cup trophy to Spain. Afterward, Trump lingered on stage, congratulating players before Infantino guided him away to allow Spain’s players to celebrate with the trophy.

Images posted by the White House and others captured Trump proudly presenting the trophy and standing with the champions, but Spain’s own posts focused solely on the players’ joy, cutting Trump and Infantino out of the frame.

"President Donald J. Trump presents the World Cup Trophy to Spain, the 2026 @FIFAWorldCup Champions! 🏆" — The White House Twitter

"Trump on stage with the World Cup Winners" — Acyn Twitter

Why Was Trump Present?

Trump attended the final as the United States was one of three host countries for the 2026 World Cup. It marked the first time since 1994 that the U.S. hosted the tournament, with many crucial matches held across the country.

Usually, a winning player carries the trophy to the podium. But due to the scale of this World Cup and Trump's personal relationship with Infantino, the FIFA president invited him to join the presentation. Trump's well-known sports enthusiasm helped secure his spot.

This follows a similar pattern from the 2022 World Cup, where Qatar’s head of state also took part in the trophy handover.