President Donald Trump may be part of the World Cup trophy lift ceremony if the winning team wishes for him to be involved, according to reports. FIFA, the sport's global governing body, is reportedly prepared to allow the US President to participate in the presentation of the trophy to the victorious squad.
This potential involvement comes amidst ongoing discussions about US protocols for the tournament, particularly concerning immigration policies. While Trump has maintained a firm stance on not altering policies for the World Cup, FIFA President Gianni Infantino has previously defended the US's right to enforce its entry requirements, even for tournament participants.
Reports suggest that FIFA's usual protocol, which limits trophy lift participation to the winning team, will not be enforced if Trump wishes to present the trophy and remain for initial celebrations. This stance follows controversy at the 2022 World Cup when the Emir of Qatar placed a traditional bisht on Argentina's captain Lionel Messi before the trophy lift.
Trump has previously been part of similar trophy presentations. Last year, he joined Chelsea players during their celebrations after they won the Club World Cup, handing the trophy to captain Reece James and remaining with the team during their celebratory moments.
