U.S. President Donald Trump jokingly asked if he could keep the FIFA World Cup trophy after FIFA President Gianni Infantino presented it to him during a visit to the Oval Office ahead of the 2026 tournament.
Infantino, who brought the trophy to Washington to rally support for the upcoming competition, noted that the cup is traditionally reserved for past winners. “It’s for winners only,” he said before handing it over.
Trump briefly fumbled with the trophy before setting it on his desk. “That’s a beautiful piece of gold. Can I keep it?” he asked with a grin, adding, “It’s the biggest—probably the biggest—event in sports.” Infantino responded with a smile.
During the meeting, it was also announced that the official World Cup draw will take place on December 5, 2025, at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.
The 79-year-old U.S. president used the occasion to highlight his administration’s crackdown on crime in the capital, stressing that Washington will be safe during the global sporting event. “It’s going to be very safe. Gianni, you can walk down the street with your beautiful wife—if you can get a reservation,” Trump quipped.
Also present were U.S. Vice President JD Vance, senior government officials, and FIFA representatives.
The 2026 World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, running from June through July 19, 2026.
