On Sunday evening, President Donald Trump will present the FIFA World Cup trophy at MetLife Stadium to the new champion, either Spain or Argentina. This event represents the culmination of FIFA’s long-standing efforts to deliver a widely anticipated spectacle featuring a full stadium and global viewership, with the host nation’s president at its center.
Six weeks ago, the outlook for this grand finale was uncertain. Critics were concerned that politics might overshadow sport in the first-ever 48-team World Cup. Fans accused FIFA of setting ticket prices too high, limiting access for supporters, while immigration policies initiated by Trump’s administration raised fears of reduced international travel and attendance. Concerns about immigration enforcement around tournament venues and below-expected hotel bookings added to the doubts. Polls suggested a lack of interest among the American public, with some media outlets questioning the event’s focus on profits and its potential to alienate fans.
Previous FIFA president Sepp Blatter advised fans to stay home, supported by anti-corruption lawyer Mark Pieth’s concerns over security threats. While some teams like Iran and Haiti faced travel restrictions, with visa delays affecting players’ families, the anticipated chaos did not manifest.
Instead, the tournament set new attendance records, drawing massive television audiences and earning praise as one of the strongest World Cups. The fears of immigration crackdowns proved unfounded. Spectator turnout was high, and a boycott movement failed to gain traction.
The Tournament Nobody Believed In
Initially, skepticism persisted. Ticket pricing continued to stir debate and hotel bookings in host cities seemed lackluster. Concerns remained about America’s reception of the slimmed-down World Cup format.
However, attendance surpassed expectations, with over six million spectators attending the first 100 matches, eclipsing previous World Cup records. The U.S. television audience mirrored this pattern. Fox broadcasts broke records with over 5 million viewers, while Telemundo saw a 122% increase in viewership over the previous tournament.
These numbers were significant for FIFA. Simon Chadwick from Emlyon Business School emphasized that the World Cup fuels FIFA’s financial cycles and supports other competitions. The quality of football also contributed, with a high scoring rate and numerous comeback victories. Prominent players like Messi, Mbappé, and Haaland led an exciting Golden Boot race.
Despite initial fears about tournament expansion diminishing quality, unexpected success stories emerged. Cape Verde’s goalkeeper Vozinha gained popularity for his performances, Norway surprised by defeating Brazil, and Scotland added to the event’s vibrant atmosphere.
The President Who Was Everywhere, and Nowhere
Trump positioned himself as a key figure in the 2026 World Cup. He hosted the tournament draw and had a task force set up for preparations. Yet, during the actual games, his public presence faded.
Despite concerns, the event proceeded without immigration raids, major security incidents, or confrontations. Instead, the focus remained on the festive celebration of cultures. Even Trump’s critics acknowledged the tournament’s smooth execution and success.
The Infantino Problem
However, FIFA President Gianni Infantino faced scrutiny. Infantino’s Peace Prize award to Trump attracted criticism. FIFA’s relationship with Trump, including setting up offices in Trump Tower, increased worries about political influence.
The reversed red card decision involving American forward Folarin Balogun after Trump’s intervention led to international criticisms. Though Trump celebrated the reversal, it raised questions about the role of politics in sporting matters.
Despite these challenges, FIFA’s financial success under Infantino remained strong, and he faced little opposition for reelection.
On Trump’s Watch
As the tournament’s end approaches, Trump will not face lingering questions. Instead, he will present the trophy, concluding one of the most successful World Cups ever. The controversies and logistical issues become footnotes; what remains is that this achievement occurred during his presidency.