Trump claims US World Cup a success despite controversies ahead of final

US President Donald Trump has stated that the United States-hosted World Cup has been a success, despite various controversies. Speaking at a FIFA reception in New York on Friday, Trump said the US turned out to be a soccer country and that the tournament has brought the world together.

The White House had to navigate a year of logistical challenges, including Trump's hardline immigration policies that barred fans from some countries. Human rights groups warned about these restrictions, and the tournament faced backlash over high ticket prices. Trump had threatened to move games from cities that did not cooperate with immigration authorities, and local authorities sparred with FIFA over transit costs.

Before the first games, the administration faced global scrutiny for visa decisions, such as denying entry to a Somali referee. Pressure increased after Trump launched a war with Iran, leaving the Iranian team and some supporters barred from the US, forcing them to base themselves in Tijuana.

However, the narrative shifted to positive cultural moments, with social media filled with stories of fans enjoying US traditions. Fears of immigration raids near games did not materialize. Andrew Giuliani, executive director of the White House FIFA Task Force, said the goal was to have people talk about what happened on the pitch, but it was even better as they also discussed cultural moments.

One controversy involved Trump's phone call to FIFA President Gianni Infantino asking for a review of a red card given to US player Folarin Balogun. FIFA reversed the decision. Giuliani said the administration had a duty to raise concerns about officiating.

The US was under pressure to host a successful tournament ahead of the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles and the 2034 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City. The US is also expected to be awarded the 2031 Women's World Cup.

Tensions with co-hosts Canada and Mexico arose due to Trump's tariffs and trade policies. However, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney plan to attend the final after an invitation from Trump.

Senator Andy Kim of New Jersey, where the final will be held, noted that logistics went mostly smoothly and the joy of fans outweighed any downsides.

Trump will present the trophy to the winner, as is customary. He has not revealed a preference, though Spain has been a point of irritation over NATO spending and Iran, while Argentine President Javier Milei is a favorite of the administration. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez plans to attend, while Milei, citing superstition, will stay home.