Donald Trump awkwardly hijacked Spain’s World Cup trophy lift as he and FIFA president Gianni Infantino handed the title to captain Rodri before staying to celebrate the hoisting of silverware. He presented medals to both teams and the runner-up award to Lionel Messi before giving the victorious Spanish star a warm smile and a medal.
But when he and Infantino handed over the trophy to the waiting Spanish national team, they actually broke FIFA regulations in the process. The two then remained in the elevator while Captain Rodri and the rest of the group waited for several minutes to see if Trump and Infantino were to depart.
Officials from co-hosts Canada and Mexico were also in attendance, but President Trump raised eyebrows when he appeared on the pitch and handed the trophy to Rodri.
FIFA protocols normally dictate that the trophy be placed on a pedestal and carried to the podium by a member of the winning team, often the captain.
However, Mr Trump, who was booed loudly when it was shown on the stadium’s large screens before kick-off and before the presentation, was given the opportunity to take over the trophy from Mr Infantino, who guided the Spain team.
Mr. Rodri remained in the center of the podium and was ushered aside by Mr. Infantino, who burst out laughing, until finally Mr. Rodri hoisted the Jules Rimet trophy with Mr. Trump a few steps away.
Infantino confirmed last month that President Trump would award a trophy to the tournament winner.
“That was always the plan,” he said. “It has always been done this way: the president of the country where the final is being held presents the trophy together with the FIFA president.”
A similar situation occurred last year when Chelsea won the Club World Cup, which was also held in the United States.
When the England right-back lifted the trophy, he stood next to Reece James, much to the confusion of the players.
“They told me he was going to present the trophy and then get off the stage, and I thought he was going to get off the stage, but he wanted to stay,” James explained.
