‘American dream came to reality’: FIFA chief Gianni Infantino credits Trump for World Cup success

WASHINGTON, DC: FIFA President Gianni Infantino praised President Donald Trump as the 2026 World Cup approached its conclusion, saying the tournament delivered on the promise of a historic event hosted on American soil.

Infantino credited the six-week tournament with exceeding expectations in attendance, viewership and global impact during a reception attended by both men ahead of Sunday's final between Spain and Argentina at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. His remarks highlighted the close relationship between FIFA leadership and the Trump administration throughout the tournament, which was jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Gianni Infantino highlights record World Cup numbers

"By all means, this World Cup has exceeded all expectations," Infantino said.

"Full stadiums, 7,000,000 people in the stadium, tens of millions in the cities, in America, in Canada, in Mexico, billions in front of their TV. Everyone enjoying the game with happiness, with joy, with peace," he added.

Infantino said the tournament brought people across the globe together, telling those at the reception, "We united the world."

"The American dream, Mr. President, came to reality," Infantino said. "This World Cup would not have been such an incredible success without you."

The 2026 World Cup marked the first edition of the tournament to feature 48 teams, expanding the competition across cities in the United States, Canada and Mexico. The expanded format allowed more nations to participate while increasing the tournament's global reach.

Infantino has repeatedly credited the Trump administration for helping support the tournament's logistics, security and infrastructure preparations across the North American host cities.

Trump and Infantino's partnership during the World Cup

Trump remained a prominent figure throughout the tournament, frequently highlighting the World Cup as a major event for the United States.

The president also made headlines after revealing that he contacted Infantino over the suspension of US striker Folarin Balogun following a red card during the group stage. FIFA later lifted the one-match suspension, allowing Balogun to return to play.

The decision drew criticism from some soccer officials who questioned whether political leaders should be involved in disciplinary matters. Infantino also faced scrutiny over concerns involving FIFA's political neutrality following his public association with Trump.

Trump said the outcome ultimately benefited the US team, arguing that the decision helped the squad avoid elimination despite having a depleted roster.

The president has also suggested that the United States could host a future World Cup independently, without Mexico and Canada, while joking about potential future tournaments involving other countries.

Infantino's latest comments came as the tournament prepared for the final match, where Trump was expected to present the trophy after the championship clash between Spain and Argentina.