U.S. President Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino praised one another on Friday (July 17), hailing the 2026 FIFA World Cup as a success as the tournament nears its conclusion. Speaking at a reception at Trump Tower in New York City, Trump suggested the United States should host future World Cups on its own or, jokingly, in partnership with China. "That way you have a nice short flight between games," he quipped. Infantino described the tournament as "the American dream" brought to life and thanked Trump for his support in helping stage the competition. The World Cup concludes on Sunday, when Argentina face Spain in the final at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

The U.S. president is set to be present at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey for Sunday's game between Spain and Argentina.

When the 2026 World Cup concludes on Sunday, US President Donald Trump will be on stage to lift the trophy—making this World Cup a new sportswashing exemplar.