Trump's Chaotic Club World Cup Final: Hearing Boos, Cheering with Chelsea, and Receiving a Champion's Medal
In an unexpected turn of events, the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey witnessed a surprise guest - none other than President Donald Trump. The US President, who was accompanied by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, joined the celebrations on stage as Chelsea triumphantly defeated Paris Saint-Germain with a resounding 3-0 scoreline.
The victory was a testament to the outstanding performances of players like Cole Palmer, who scored two goals, and João Pedro, who added another. Palmer was later named the player of the tournament, but expressed his bewilderment about Trump's presence on the stand during the trophy lift.
Upon their arrival, Trump and First Lady Melania Trump were met with cheers. However, during the trophy presentation, Trump was initially booed, a response that repeated when he presented medals on the field. Chelsea captain Reece James and Trump remained on stage after the game, with James also expressing confusion about the President's presence and his decision to remain after presenting the trophy.
Infantino presented Trump with a medal shortly after the trophy was awarded to James. Videos on social media appeared to show this exchange. In a statement to AP, President Trump called the final a great match.
The unique halftime performance, featuring British rock band Coldplay, J Balvin, Doja Cat, Tems, and Emmanuel Kelly, added an American-style razzle-dazzle to the event. With the FIFA Club World Cup set to be played in the US, Canada, and Mexico in less than 12 months, this year's final may prove to be a sign of things to come.
CNN Sports has reached out to FIFA to confirm if Trump was given a medal and if he was meant to be on stage during the trophy lift. The details surrounding Trump's involvement in the ceremony have caused some confusion among the Chelsea players and fans alike.
- The unexpected presence of President Donald Trump during the trophy lift of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup final, a sporting event, was met with mixed reactions, as it transitioned from entertainment provided by Coldplay and J Balvin, into the realm of politics.
- The extraordinary moment saw both Chelsea captain Reece James and President Trump remaining on stage after the game, a scene that had the players and fans questioning the President's involvement in the sports event.
- Engulfed in the general news surrounding the controversial participation of Trump in the trophy presentation, FIFA President Gianni Infantino awarded him a medal, shifting the focus of the football tournament to the world of politics.
