FIFA President Gianni Infantino paid a symbolic visit to the White House in Washington, DC, where he met US President Donald Trump. The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. This is the first time in history when three nations will share the honour of staging football’s biggest tournament.
During their meeting in the Oval Office, Infantino presented Trump with the official FIFA World Cup 2026 trophy. While handing it over, the FIFA President joked, “It’s for winners only and since you are a winner, you can touch it.” He added that the trophy was heavy and pointed out that Lionel Messi, Argentina’s captain and 2022 champion, was the last to lift it.
Holding the iconic trophy, President Trump quipped, “Can I keep it?” sparking laughter in the room. He went on to add, “Don’t think I’m giving it back,” even gesturing to a spot in his office where he said he could proudly display it.
Trump gets first FIFA World Cup 2026 ticket
Infantino also handed Trump the very first ticket to the 2026 World Cup. Interestingly, the ticket, marked Row One, Seat One, carried the number 45/47, which is a symbolic nod to Trump’s distinction as both the 45th and 47th President of the United States.
The 2026 edition of the FIFA World Cup will be the biggest in history, expanding to 48 teams and spanning 16 host cities across North America. The tournament is scheduled to run from June 11 to July 19, 2026, with the official draw to be held at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC.
Trump’s appearance at the event
At the White House event, Trump wore a red cap with the slogan, “Trump was right about everything.” He was joined by Vice President JD Vance and Secretary Kristi Noem as he welcomed the FIFA President and celebrated the symbolic moment.
