Post by : Meena Ariff

Photo: AFP

Former US President Donald Trump experienced both boos and cheers at the FIFA Club World Cup final yesterday. The match was held at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, just outside New York City. Trump attended the game with his wife, Melania Trump.

Trump Joins Chelsea's Celebration

After Chelsea won the final against Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), Trump walked onto the pitch with FIFA President Gianni Infantino to present the trophy. He handed the shining trophy to Chelsea’s captain Reece James. Trump smiled broadly, wearing his usual red tie, and clapped along with the players. He even jumped with them in celebration as they lifted the trophy high in the air.

Loud Boos Before Presentation

However, before the trophy presentation, as Trump entered the pitch, loud boos could be heard among some cheers and applause from the crowd. To cover the booing, the stadium music was turned up. Earlier in the evening, when Trump appeared on the big screen saluting during the US national anthem, some fans booed again before the camera quickly moved away.

Trump Calls Crowd “Tremendous”

Despite the mixed reaction, Trump appeared happy. He handed out trophies to star players, including the Golden Ball award for best player, which went to Cole Palmer of Chelsea. He also shook hands with the PSG team and gave them their silver medals.
After the match, Trump spoke to reporters as he landed back in Washington DC. He said, “We had a great time,” and called the crowd “tremendous.”

Anniversary of Assassination Attempt

This public appearance came on an important day for Trump. It was the first anniversary of an assassination attempt he survived last year at an election rally in Pennsylvania. The event reminded his supporters of his difficult journey and strengthened his resolve to use such public events as symbols of his leadership.

World Cup Plans and America’s 250th Anniversary

Trump hopes to use major football events to show his vision of what he calls the “Golden Age of America.” The FIFA Club World Cup this year and the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup are both significant to him. The World Cup final will also be held at MetLife Stadium, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of US independence.
To prepare, Trump has set up a White House task force to make sure next year’s World Cup, co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico, runs smoothly without any security or logistical problems.

Close Relationship with FIFA President

Trump has developed a strong relationship with FIFA President Gianni Infantino. Infantino has visited the White House many times. He even gave Trump a replica of the Club World Cup trophy during his visit in March, and Trump keeps it next to his desk in the Oval Office.
Infantino thanked Trump for his continued support. He said Trump immediately understood the importance of the Club World Cup and the upcoming World Cup. Infantino jokingly added that Trump “certainly loves the trophy,” which is gold-plated and matches the gold décor of the Oval Office.

Trump’s Personal Connection to Football

Football is also a personal interest for Trump. His youngest son, Barron Trump, is a football fan. Infantino said that as a parent, Trump likely grew to love the game because his son loves it so much.
Infantino also shared that during Trump’s first term as president, there was a soccer goal in the White House garden for Barron to play. Trump himself played football for one season when he was a student at the New York Military Academy.

Controversial Comments During Juventus Visit

However, Trump has also mixed political issues with his love for football. In June, he hosted the Italian club Juventus at the White House. During the meeting, he spoke about transgender people in sports. He then asked the Juventus players, “Could a woman make your team, fellas?” The players looked confused, and their general manager Damien Comolli replied politely, saying, “We have a very good women’s team.” Trump laughed and said, “He’s being very diplomatic.”

Immigration Policies Affecting World Cup Fans

Some people are concerned that Trump’s strict immigration policies, part of his “America First” approach, could discourage football fans from visiting the US for the World Cup in 2026. In May, Vice President JD Vance said that fans would be “welcome to come... but when the time is up, they will have to go home,” referring to visitors’ visas.

As Trump continues his political campaign, he plans to use major sports events to highlight American pride and unity. Despite the boos he faced at the FIFA Club World Cup final, he appeared undisturbed and enjoyed celebrating with Chelsea’s players on the field.
Many believe that Trump’s love for football, his connections with FIFA leaders, and his plans for the World Cup will play an important role in shaping his second-term policies if he returns to the White House. For now, his focus remains on showing the world that the US is ready to host football’s biggest event with pride and strong security.