President Donald Trump faced a chorus of boos at the 2026 FIFA World Cup final on Sunday. It was an awkward reception that bookended the night as he later overstayed his welcome during Spain’s trophy presentation. The incident, which happened at the tournament’s showcase event jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, added a controversial footnote to an otherwise celebratory evening.

Donald Trump booed by the crowd at the 2026 FIFA World Cup final

The crowd inside the stadium had just erupted in applause for Jennifer Hudson’s rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” But the atmosphere shifted the moment Fox switched its cameras to Trump in his executive box. Boos cascaded down from the stands, forcing the broadcaster to cut away within seconds to an aerial shot. Even then, the jeering remained audible underneath the commentary.

The hostility resurfaced after the final whistle. Trump walked onto the pitch to participate in the medal ceremony, and once again the crowd made its feelings known. Fox’s broadcast layered music and narration over the moment, softening the impact for television viewers. However, raw ambient recordings from inside the venue revealed the full force of the disapproval.

Furthermore, after Spain defeated Argentina 1-0, Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino collected the trophy while Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, and other dignitaries exited the stage. Together, Trump and Infantino presented the iconic gold prize to Spain captain Rodri.

Rodri shook hands with Trump and then waited, seemingly looking like he was expecting him to leave. Instead, Trump drifted to the right side of the stage, opposite Infantino’s direction. The FIFA president was forced to cross in front of the Spanish players, gesturing and speaking to Trump in an effort to guide him away.

Spain erupted into celebration as confetti filled the air. Their players hoisted the trophy aloft. And still Trump remained nearby, shifting to his left and prolonging his conversation with Infantino while the champions rejoiced around him.

It mirrored his behavior at the 2025 Club World Cup final, where he presented Chelsea with the trophy and then lingered as the English side began their celebrations. All in all, the 2026 FIFA World Cup saw 104 matches staged across three host nations, with the bulk played on American soil.