Donald Trump will join FIFA president Gianni Infantino on July 19 to present the World Cup trophy to the winning captain in New Jersey, Infantino confirmed on Fox & Friends. The joint hand‑over breaks recent FIFA protocol, which has seen only the federation chief lift the cup since the 2018 and 2022 tournaments.

Infantino cited last summer’s Club World Cup ceremony as the catalyst. Trump handed Chelsea captain Reece James the trophy in New Jersey, then lingered onstage, joining the players’ celebrations and prompting criticism. That episode prompted FIFA to formalise a co‑presentation, ensuring the U.S. president shares the spotlight while preserving the sport’s ceremonial integrity.

The arrangement revives a tradition dating back to 1966, when heads of state such as Queen Elizabeth II presented the cup. By pairing a political figure with the federation chief, FIFA aims to blend global spectacle with official protocol, delivering a high‑profile finale that will be remembered as much for its ceremony as for the on‑field drama.

Fans and media will scrutinise whether the political cameo distracts from the sport. Critics argue the move politicises football, while supporters claim it boosts viewership in the United States. Regardless, the joint presentation guarantees a televised moment that could eclipse the match itself, cementing July 19 as a historic crossover between sport and American politics.