Trump removal from FIFA World Cup photo called into question - The Mercury News

What the report says

The New York Daily News reported that President Trump’s absence from FIFA’s official celebration photos after Spain’s 2026 World Cup victory has renewed scrutiny of his visible role around the tournament. Spain defeated Argentina in the final at New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, on July 19, with images showing Rodri lifting the trophy after the match.

According to the Daily News, Trump remained on the presentation stage as Spain’s players prepared to celebrate with their medals, before FIFA President Gianni Infantino guided him away from the center of attention. The article said the scene was widely characterized as awkward. FIFA photos shared on X did not show Trump in the team celebration, though one image appeared to include part of a dark blue suit sleeve; the report said it was not clear whether the picture was cropped or simply framed without him.

The Daily News also noted that Reuters reported audible boos when Trump and Infantino appeared on stage. The article said there was no obvious hostility between Trump, Infantino and Spain’s players during the medal and trophy ceremony.

As context, the Daily News pointed to earlier controversies surrounding Trump’s connection to the tournament, including his call to Infantino after U.S. player Folarin Balogun was suspended for a hard foul and FIFA’s later decision to allow Balogun to play. The report also cited Infantino’s presentation of a newly created FIFA Peace Prize to Trump, and referenced polling showing Trump’s low international confidence ratings.