A sold-out crowd at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, delivered a resounding chorus of boos towards former US President Donald Trump during the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup final. Trump was a prominent figure throughout the event, culminating in his unexpected and prolonged presence on stage as Chelsea FC lifted their historic trophy after defeating Paris Saint-Germain 3-0 on Sunday. This appearance, marked by significant public disapproval, underscored the unusual intersection of high-profile politics and global football.
Trump’s interaction with the crowd began even before kick-off. While the US national anthem played just moments before the match started – a schedule change reportedly timed for his arrival – images of him standing on the stadium’s large video boards were met with audible jeers from sections of the audience for several seconds. The negative reaction continued when he later walked onto the pitch alongside FIFA president Gianni Infantino to commence the trophy presentation proceedings.
The most discussed moment occurred during the trophy lift itself. After jointly carrying the Club World Cup trophy towards the victorious Chelsea squad, Infantino stepped back, allowing the players their moment. However, Trump remained front and center, positioning himself squarely in the television cameras’ focus as Chelsea captain Reece James raised the silverware amidst the team’s jubilant celebrations. This seemingly deliberate decision to stay prompted further boos and confusion.
Chelsea players, including standout performer Cole Palmer and captain Reece James, later expressed surprise at Trump’s continued presence on the victory platform. Palmer, who knew Trump would attend, admitted he was “a bit confused” to see him on the stand during the actual trophy lift. James recounted being told Trump would present the trophy and then depart, only for him to stay, though James noted Trump congratulated him and the team. Despite the awkwardness perceived by some players and the crowd’s reaction, Trump reportedly appeared unfazed, grinning, clapping, and even joining in a bit of the celebratory jumping.
While the political cameo grabbed headlines, the football itself saw Chelsea deliver a decisive performance. Under manager Enzo Maresca, the English side secured a commanding 3-0 victory over a favored PSG. Cole Palmer was the undisputed star, earning the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player. Palmer scored Chelsea’s first two goals and assisted the third, showcasing the form that has elevated his profile significantly. The match also saw a testy exchange between Chelsea’s Joao Pedro and PSG coach Luis Enrique after the final whistle, highlighting tensions on the pitch.
Trump’s appearance was no accident but part of a visible cultivation of a relationship with FIFA President Gianni Infantino, particularly since the United States was awarded co-hosting rights for the 2026 World Cup. Infantino has publicly described their relationship as “absolutely crucial” and has frequently appeared alongside Trump at various events. The Club World Cup trophy itself had reportedly been kept near Trump’s desk in the Oval Office following an earlier presentation by Infantino, symbolizing the close ties. Trump has also established a White House task force dedicated to the success of the 2026 tournament.
The event attracted a host of notable figures. Joining Trump and Infantino in a luxury box were prominent personalities such as former NFL quarterback Tom Brady and media mogul Rupert Murdoch. Several members of Trump’s cabinet were also in attendance. On the presentation stage alongside Trump, Infantino, and the teams were Chelsea co-owner Todd Boehly and PSG chair Nasser al-Khelaifi, underscoring the blend of sports, business, and politics at the event. Security at the stadium was notably heightened, with Secret Service agents present, leading to slow but orderly entry procedures for fans.
The Club World Cup appearance occurred on the first anniversary of an assassination attempt against Trump, adding another layer to the political context. Trump himself has indicated plans to leverage large-scale sporting events like the Club World Cup and the upcoming 2026 World Cup – positioned to coincide with America’s 250th anniversary – as symbols of a potential “Golden Age of America” during a possible second presidential term. However, potential concerns have been raised that his “America First” rhetoric and stringent immigration policies could deter international football fans from attending the 2026 event.
Despite the persistent booing from segments of the crowd, composed largely of fans from England and France but also including American attendees, Trump offered positive remarks about his experience and the sport. In a brief statement to broadcaster DAZN, he called the tournament a “big thing,” praised FIFA, and noted soccer’s growth in the US. He described the match outcome as “a little bit of an upset” and stated he had a “great time,” appearing determinedly “unbowed” by the negative reception.
The final marked Chelsea’s historic win in the revamped Club World Cup, culminating an exhausting season with a world champion title. However, the on-field achievement was undeniably paired with an unusual off-field spectacle, as the presence and actions of a major political figure became a central talking point, adding a controversial dimension to the post-match celebrations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Donald Trump attend the FIFA Club World Cup final?
Donald Trump attended the final primarily due to his close relationship with FIFA President Gianni Infantino and the United States co-hosting the upcoming 2026 World Cup. Infantino has actively sought a strong association with Trump, calling their relationship “absolutely crucial” for the success of major tournaments hosted in the US. Trump views these events as opportunities to promote a “Golden Age of America” narrative.
Who was on stage with Donald Trump during the trophy presentation?
During the trophy presentation at MetLife Stadium, Donald Trump was on stage with FIFA President Gianni Infantino. They were joined by Chelsea FC players and staff (the winners) and PSG players and staff (the runners-up). Also present on stage were Chelsea co-owner Todd Boehly and PSG chair Nasser al-Khelaifi. While Infantino stepped back, Trump remained prominently positioned as Chelsea captain Reece James lifted the trophy.
How did the crowd react to Donald Trump at the MetLife Stadium?
The crowd at the sold-out MetLife Stadium delivered a largely negative reaction to Donald Trump’s presence. Boos were distinctly heard when he was shown on video screens during the national anthem before the match and continued as he walked onto the field for the trophy presentation. Despite this significant booing, Trump reportedly appeared “unbowed” and in good spirits while on stage with the Chelsea team.
