U.S. President Donald Trump will attend Sunday's World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, the White House said on Thursday, saving his first appearance at the tournament for its grand finale.

"His attendance will cap what has been the most watched, most secure, and most successful World Cup in American history," Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told a briefing.

"This is a fitting conclusion to a tournament that showcased America's ability to host the world on the grandest stage."

The U.S. leader will also attend a reception for football's global governing body FIFA at Trump Tower in New York on Friday, Leavitt said.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino had announced in June that Trump would attend the final in New Jersey and present the trophy to the winners, but it had not been confirmed by the White House.