The 2026 International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) World Cup final is shaping up to be a grand celebration in the U.S., one of the tournament’s host nations.
Spain and Argentina are set to clash in the championship match on July 17 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
This highly anticipated contest will not only crown the tournament champion but also serve as a fitting finale to nearly a month of soccer fever.
However, concerns have been raised that the final may turn into a showcase for the U.S., despite the host nation not being a participant in the match.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt revealed during a regular briefing on July 17 that President Donald Trump intends to attend the final on July 19.
Leavitt emphasized that the President’s presence will cap off what has been the most-watched, safest, and most successful World Cup in U.S. history. She added that it’s a fitting conclusion to a tournament that has demonstrated America’s capability to host world-class events on the global stage.
President Trump is expected to present the trophy to the victorious team and take part in the post-match ceremonies. FIFA President Gianni Infantino had previously suggested that Trump might hand over the World Cup trophy.
While it’s not uncommon for a host nation’s leader to attend the final, there’s significant pushback due to recent controversies involving Trump, particularly regarding the suspension of U.S. forward Folarin Balogun.
After Balogun received a red card in the round of 32, ruling him out of the round of 16 match, Trump reportedly intervened with Infantino to suspend Balogun’s ban. Despite the controversy, Balogun played, but the U.S. team was eliminated after a 4-1 loss to Belgium in the round of 16.
Adding to the American flavor, the final will feature a performance of the U.S. national anthem. ESPN reports that acclaimed singer Jennifer Hudson will perform “The Star-Spangled Banner” during the pre-match festivities.
The inclusion of the host nation’s anthem alongside those of the two finalists is an unusual move in World Cup history.
Furthermore, the national anthems of co-hosts Mexico and Canada will not be played, fueling ongoing debates about perceived American favoritism and criticism that the event has become an American party rather than a truly global celebration.