Trump and Infantino say the 2026 World Cup exceeded all expectations

Roughly 48 hours before a World Cup winner is crowned, President Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino raved about the success of this year’s tournament.

The United States was awarded the opportunity to host this year’s tournament, and 11 of the 16 venues hosted matches, including all of the quarterfinals, semifinals and the upcoming final.

“I promised you we would make a great World Cup. And, by all means, this World Cup has exceeded all expectations,” Infantino said, adding that 7 million fans have attended games thus far, and “billions” have watched on television.

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President Donald Trump speaks alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino at a FIFA reception at Trump Tower in New York City on July 17, 2026. (Andrew Harnik/Reuters)

“The American dream came to reality. We united the world, we united the world in America. When I told you we will do a great World Cup, you told me America will welcome the world. And you did welcome the world,” Infantino added.

“Everyone that came here enjoyed it, everyone that stayed home enjoyed it as well. By watching the incredible images of these beautiful host cities, of the fans from all over the world coming together and enjoying in peace, Mr. President, in happiness and in joy. Because, I don’t know if you know, but the official definition of FIFA is, FIFA is the official happiness provider to humanity [for] 120 years. We are providing joy and happiness — unless the team loses, of course. And all these, of course, would not have been possible. And I say this, because it is the truth. You don’t need people to compliment you, Mr. President, but this World Cup would not have been such an incredible success without you…

President Donald Trump shakes hands with FIFA President Gianni Infantino at a FIFA reception at Trump Tower in New York City on July 17, 2026. (Andrew Harnik/Reuters)

“This has not just been and is not just the greatest World Cup of all time. It is the greatest human, social and cultural event that mankind has ever witnessed and seen. And we are all part of it. And for this, I thank you very much, Mr. President.”

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Trump also called the event “the most successful sporting event maybe in the history of the world.”

“It’s been a true honor for Americans to share our magnificent country with the world. And today, America, it’s stronger and wealthier and hotter than ever before, and you’re a big part of it…” Trump said.

“I think beyond a sporting event, it’s been, this has been not just a sporting event. This has been far beyond a sporting event. This has been something very, very special.”

President Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino attend a FIFA reception at Trump Tower in New York. Trump will attend the 2026 World Cup final between Spain and Argentina. (Mandel Ngan/AFP)

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Trump and Infantino will be at Sunday’s final at MetLife Stadium and will hand the trophy to the winning team, which will be either Spain or Argentina.

Argentina are looking to become the first back-to-back winners since Brazil in 1958 and 1962. This is Spain’s second final, having won in 2010 in South Africa.

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