U.S. President Donald Trump drew attention on Friday with a lighthearted remark about potentially participating in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Speaking alongside FIFA president Gianni Infantino,Trump described himself as a “very good athlete” and suggested he could compete, joking that he looked “extremely good in shorts.”
“I might play,” Trump said. “I see the money that these soccer players are making… I might try and play!”
His comments were made in a jocular context and were met with laughter from reporters and attendees. Trump also highlighted his youngest son, Barron, as a promising soccer player.
“My son is a very good athlete and he’s a good soccer player. On the tall side for a soccer player-he’s 6’9′,” he added.
Infantino responded with a smile, noting that such height could be advantageous on the field.
The 2026 World Cup is expected to be one of the largest tournaments in history, with matches scheduled across multiple venues in North America. The official draw for the event is planned for December in Washington, D.C.
Trump has publicly expressed support for hosting the tournament in the United States and has emphasized its importance for promoting sports and tourism.
Infantino continues to cosy up to Donald Trump
Although Trump’s suggestion of playing was humorous, he has previously been involved in high-profile soccer events.
Last month, he was present at MetLife Stadium for the Club World Cup final, where Chelsea defeated PSG. Trump presented Chelsea and England midfielder Cole Palmer with the Golden Ball award and remained on stage for medal presentations, celebrating alongside the winning team.
His presence generated a mix of reactions. In defense of the appearance, his son Eric Trump told BBC Sport that Chelsea had invited the former president to participate in the trophy presentation.
“The winning team invited him to the stage because they said it would be the greatest honor of their life if the president of the United States could present the Club World Cup trophy,” Eric Trump explained.
He added that the stadium reacted enthusiastically, underscoring Trump’s visibility at major sporting events.
Trump’s comments about the World Cup reflect his ongoing engagement with international sports. While he is not expected to compete, his remarks and public appearances demonstrate his interest in maintaining a profile at prominent athletic events.
The 2026 tournament, anticipated to feature expanded participation and high-profile matches across three countries, is generating considerable attention well in advance of the official draw. Trump’s lighthearted suggestion has already contributed to media coverage and public discussion surrounding the event, highlighting the intersection of politics, celebrity, and global sports.
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