MetLife Stadium, New Jersey — Former U.S. President Donald Trump faced a mixed reception at the FIFA Club World Cup final on Sunday, as boos echoed across the MetLife Stadium during his appearance on the pitch, despite later celebrating enthusiastically with the victorious Chelsea team.
Trump, accompanied by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, presented the trophy to Chelsea captain Reece James following the team’s win over Paris Saint-Germain. Though greeted with a combination of cheers and loud jeers when he stepped onto the field for the post-match ceremony, Trump appeared unfazed, clapping and jumping alongside jubilant Chelsea players as they lifted the gleaming trophy.
Trump’s arrival earlier at the stadium alongside First Lady Melania Trump had also prompted mixed reactions. When the former president was shown saluting during the U.S. national anthem on the stadium’s jumbotron, boos could again be heard, prompting the feed to quickly cut away.
Despite the divided reception, Trump told reporters afterward, “We had a great time,” calling the crowd “tremendous” as he returned to Washington via Joint Base Andrews.
The event marked the first anniversary of the assassination attempt Trump survived during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania and came as the former president seeks to frame major international events — including the FIFA Club World Cup and next year’s World Cup — as milestones in what he calls the “Golden Age of America.”
Next year’s FIFA World Cup final, set to be held at the same New Jersey stadium, will coincide with the 250th anniversary of American independence. Trump has established a White House task force to oversee preparations for the tournament, which the U.S. is co-hosting with Canada and Mexico.
Trump has forged close ties with FIFA President Infantino, who praised the former president’s enthusiastic support for both the Club World Cup and the upcoming 2026 World Cup. Infantino, speaking at FIFA’s office in Trump Tower, noted Trump’s personal connection to the game, particularly through his son Barron, an avid football fan.
“He told me that his son loved football, and of course, when you’re a parent, you love what your children love,” Infantino said. “So I think he loves it.”
Despite his support for the sport, Trump has also stirred controversy with his remarks. During a visit from Juventus players to the White House, he questioned whether a woman could make the men’s team — prompting an awkward response from the club’s manager, who reminded him of their successful women’s squad.
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Trump’s strict immigration policies have also raised concerns about accessibility and international fan participation in the 2026 World Cup. Vice President JD Vance recently reassured fans they would be welcomed — but emphasized they must leave when their visas expire.
As Trump positions himself for a return to the White House, his involvement in global sporting events is becoming part of a broader strategy to connect culture, politics, and nationalism in the lead-up to the next election.
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