The 2026 World Cup has generated headlines both on and off the pitch throughout the tournament. Supporters have debated several issues since the competition began across North America.
Ticket prices have frustrated many fans attending matches in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Questions have also emerged regarding the expanded tournament format and the increased number of teams.
UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin has reportedly been among those critical of the changes.
Meanwhile, uncertainty surrounding Iran’s participation created further controversy before the tournament.
The decision to deny Somali referee Omar Artan entry into the United States also sparked global debate.
Many figures across football criticised the treatment of the official after FIFA removed him from the tournament roster.
UEFA have lent their support to Omar Artan by appointing him as the referee for the Super Cup game between PSG and Aston Villa.
Against that backdrop, another unusual talking point has now emerged ahead of the World Cup final.
According to talkSPORT, Donald Trump has received permission to play a major role during the trophy presentation ceremony.
The United States president has already been informed that FIFA wants him to hand the World Cup trophy to the winning captain.
That decision could lead to another break from traditional FIFA protocol. Trump attracted significant attention during the Club World Cup final earlier this year.
The president remained alongside Chelsea captain Reece James as the team celebrated their trophy success. Many viewers noticed the unusual scene during the presentation.
Cole Palmer appeared visibly surprised while standing near the trophy lift.
Meanwhile, FIFA president Gianni Infantino initially appeared to usher Trump away before later encouraging him to remain. A similar situation could now unfold at the World Cup final.
Both Canadian and Mexican officials will also receive invitations to attend the closing ceremony.
However, sources claim FIFA will allow Trump significant freedom regarding his involvement.
The governing body reportedly has no objection to him handing over the trophy personally.
Reports suggest that FIFA will leave the final decision to Trump regarding where he stands during the celebrations.
That decision raises the possibility of another highly unusual moment during one of football’s biggest occasions.
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