President Donald Trump injected his signature blend of humor and self-assuredness into the announcement that the 2026 FIFA World Cup draw will be held at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.. During an Oval Office meeting with FIFA President Gianni Infantino on August 22, 2025, Trump not only secured a prominent role for the nation’s capital in the upcoming tournament but also found time to joke about his own athletic prowess and his appreciation for the World Cup trophy.
The event, scheduled for December 5, 2025, will determine the group-stage matchups for the expanded 48-team tournament, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Trump, now also the chairman of the Kennedy Center, highlighted the significance of the event for Washington, D.C., stating it was a "tremendous honor" to bring the global event to the cultural center of the nation's capital. He also took the opportunity to address concerns about crime in the city, assuring Infantino that Washington would be safe for the event.
The lighter side of the meeting emerged when Infantino presented Trump with the World Cup trophy. Trump, in characteristic fashion, couldn't resist joking about keeping the coveted prize. "Can I keep it?!" he asked, adding, "We're not giving it back!". Infantino clarified that only FIFA Presidents, Presidents of countries, and winners are permitted to touch the trophy, but he humorously acknowledged Trump as a "winner". Trump admired the trophy, calling it “a beautiful piece of gold” and suggesting a spot in his office where he might display the trophy.
Adding another layer of levity to the proceedings, Trump responded to a question about his potential participation in the FIFA World Cup draw at the Kennedy Center in December by saying, "I may try and play". He continued, "I may put on shorts, I look extremely good in shorts, and join the play". He also remarked about his son being a very good athlete, who is also a good soccer player, despite being very tall.
Trump also raised eyebrows when discussing potential attendees for the World Cup, mentioning that Russian President Vladimir Putin "may" come to the U.S. for the event, depending on the circumstances. This comment came despite Russia's current suspension from FIFA and UEFA competitions following the invasion of Ukraine.
Infantino gifted Trump the first ticket to the World Cup Final, numbered 45/47, a nod to his presidential terms. He also assured that millions of people will come to the country and get their travel documents and visas so that they can come here and spend their money and enjoy the sporting event.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, with its expanded format and widespread North American presence, is anticipated to be the "biggest event in sports". With the draw set to take place at the Kennedy Center, and with Trump's unique brand of showmanship and commentary already making headlines, the lead-up to the tournament promises to be anything but dull.
