After presenting the World Cup trophy to Spain captain Rodri, who gathered his teammates for the traditional trophy lift, Trump was seen standing among the jubilant Spanish players instead of stepping aside.
President Donald J. Trump presents the World Cup Trophy to Spain, the 2026 @FIFAWorldCup Champions! 🏆 pic.twitter.com/SHsoBhYm1b
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) July 19, 2026
Moments later, FIFA President Gianni Infantino appeared to intervene and gently guided the US President away from the centre of the celebrations, creating an awkward scene that was widely shared on social media.
In another viral moment from the ceremony, Argentina defender Cristian Romero was seen appearing to decline a handshake with Trump during the medal presentation, prompting widespread discussion online.
On the field, Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 after extra time to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Ferran Torres scoring the decisive winner in a tense and physical final.
🇦🇷🇪🇸 | Cristian Cuti Romero le negó el saludo a Donald Trump. pic.twitter.com/YKRYFNHU67
— Mundo en Conflicto 🌎 (@MundoEConflicto) July 19, 2026
In front of a crowd of around 80,000 spectators, Argentina finished the match with 10 men after Enzo Fernández was sent off for a second yellow card in stoppage time at the end of normal time.
The defeat ended Lionel Messi's bid to win back-to-back FIFA World Cup titles with Argentina.
Spain's triumph marked the country's second FIFA World Cup title in its history.