President Donald Trump presented the World Cup trophy to Spain at a FIFA reception in New York City, saying the United States had become a soccer country and would remain one. Spain won the tournament 1‑0 over Argentina in the final on Sunday. After the match, Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino handed the trophy to the Spanish team as gold confetti was released. Trump stood with the team, smiling and patting the trophy, while Melania Trump and Infantino watched from his box seat.

The 2026 World Cup was co‑hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, making it the largest edition in history. The Trump administration's hard‑line immigration policies created logistical challenges, including restrictions on fans from certain qualifier nations and visa issues for officials such as a referee from Somalia. The administration invested billions in security and transit to ensure the event ran safely and with integrity.

Trump suggested the United States should bid again to host the tournament, proposing a rotating host model. He also asked Infantino to review a controversial red‑card decision in a US match against Bosnia and Herzegovina; FIFA later reversed the call. The White House said it had a duty to question officiating processes, which were scrutinized for the use of video review.

Human rights groups warned that the administration’s visa decisions could affect participation, but enforcement raids near venues did not occur. Tensions with co‑host Canada and Mexico arose after Trump announced tariffs and chose not to renew a trilateral trade pact. He threatened a tariff on Canada over wildfire‑related air quality concerns. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney attended the final at Trump’s request, signaling attempts to ease diplomatic strain.

Senator Andy Kim, a World Cup fan from New Jersey, said the overall fan experience and excitement outweighed logistical issues. The US is slated to host the 2028 Summer Olympics and the 2034 Winter Olympics, and is expected to receive the 2031 Women's World Cup, with the administration emphasizing women‑only participation.