Donald Trump awkwardly hung around on the winners' podium at MetLife Stadium as Spain's victorious team celebrated a 1-0 extra-time win over Argentina in the Club World Cup final.
Trump's second Club World Cup appearance
The U.S. president, joined as ever by FIFA president Gianni Infantino, handed the trophy to Spain skipper Rodri after the match. The Manchester City midfielder appeared to gently guide Trump to the side of the stage, as did Infantino, but he was still in shot when the World Cup was hoisted aloft.
The scene mirrored Trump's awkward part in Chelsea's Club World Cup trophy presentation at the same MetLife Stadium a year ago. Trump remained on the winners' podium after handing the trophy to Chelsea's Reece James after beating Paris St Germain, with match-winner Cole Palmer admitting he was "confused" by the situation.
Security was increased around the stadium as 80-year-old Trump attended Sunday's global showpiece. The tournament is a prelude to the 2026 World Cup that Canada, Mexico and the United States will co-host.
Star-studded crowd in New Jersey
Other high-profile attendees included David Beckham, his wife Victoria Beckham, and their sons Cruz and Romeo. Matt Damon, Beyonce and Jay-Z, Mick Jagger, Kylie Jenner and Timothee Chalamet were also snapped in the crowd watching the game.
Before the match, a string of stars appeared for the tournament's closing ceremony, including Tom Cruise, Robbie Williams and Jennifer Hudson. FIFA extended the interval of the match in New Jersey to allow for an 11-minute spectacle featuring performances from artists including Madonna, Shakira and Justin Bieber. The show resulted in the customary 15-minute half-time break lasting more than 27 minutes.
Spain's victory sparked wild celebrations in New York. Spain's prime minister Pedro Sanchez celebrated with a post on X, captioning a photo of the national side: "WE ARE WORLD CHAMPIONS!!" Congratulations were also echoed by the Spanish royal family.