U.S. President Donald Trump had glowing words for the job his home country did as hosts of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is officially in the history books after Spain lifted the trophy after beating Argentina 1-0 A.E.T. in the final on Sunday, July 19.
President Trump was more than satisfied with the job the U.S. did as World Cup hosts, heaping some incredible praise on the month-and-a-half-long event.
President Donald Trump calls the 2026 World Cup ‘the greatest event ever held’
Before flying out of the New York/New Jersey Stadium after handing the World Cup trophy to Spain, President Trump spoke to reporters about the tournament being the greatest event ever held.
“This was one of the greatest events of any kind ever held. There’s never been anything like it in terms of an event, let alone in soccer or football. I thought it was incredible. It was four times greater than any that FIFA ever held. We’re very proud of our country.”
The World Cup does seem like the greatest event held after every edition, and it is something every head of state would say to highlight the job their nation did to successfully host the event.
In terms of scale, this was easily the greatest World Cup ever, primarily because 48 teams competed for the first time. This scale likely gets one-upped in a few editions, with FIFA entertaining a 64-team tournament in the future.
Trump will also be in the final year of his Presidency when the Summer Olympics come to the United States in 2028. That will lead to the United States hosting a much larger pool of athletes and multiple competitions than the football-focused World Cup, so he might change his stance in two years.
Trump’s positive feelings toward the 2026 World Cup will likely push the nation to bid to host in 2038 when they’re next eligible.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
