2026 World Cup: it is not yet known whether Donald Trump will participate in the opening; newspaper says no

US President Donald Trump during a cabinet meeting at the White House May 27, 2026
REUTERS/Evan Vucci
Just hours before the opening ceremony of the 2026 World Cup this Friday (12), there is still no official confirmation about the presence of the President of the United States, Donald Trump, at the event.
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According to the newspaper The Athletic, the Republican is not expected to attend the opening match of the tournament, between the United States and Paraguay, scheduled for this Friday (12), at the SoFi Stadium, in Los Angeles.
According to the publication, the US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, is expected to represent the American government at the ceremony.
So far, Trump has not spoken publicly to confirm or deny his participation. The absence would draw attention because heads of state are usually present at World Cup openings, especially when the tournament is held in their own country.
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The expectation that the president could be left out has gained strength in recent years days amid escalating tensions involving the United States and Iran. The international scenario has occupied much of the White House's agenda and fueled doubts about Trump's participation in the event.
In the last three editions of the World Cup, the leaders of the host countries participated in the opening ceremonies:
2022 (Qatar) - Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani participated in the opening ceremony.
2018 (Russia) - President Vladimir Putin was present at the opening of the World Cup.
2014 (Brazil) - Then-president Dilma Rousseff attended the opening ceremony held in São Paulo.
The United States is one of the three host countries for the 2026 World Cup, alongside Mexico and Canada. This will be the first World Cup in history to be played by 48 teams and held simultaneously in three nations.
The presidents of the United States, Donald Trump, and FIFA, Gianni Infantino, have formed a close relationship
EPA

Source: G1