Donald Trump given greenlight to break strict FIFA protocol during World Cup

FIFA reportedly have “no objection” to US President Donald Trump breaking strict protocol during the 2026 World Cup.

The 23rd edition of the tournament is well and truly underway, with all three host nations – the US, Mexico and Canada – earning positive results in their opening matches, adding to the excitement surrounding the competition.

Mexico opened the tournament with a 2-0 win over South Africa, while Canada drew 1-1 against Bosnia and Herzegovina. The US romped to a 4-1 victory over Paraguay on June 13.

Meanwhile, five-time winners Brazil could only manage a 1-1 draw against 2022 semi-finalists Morocco.

Germany beat World Cup debutants Curaçao 7-1 on June 14, despite the newcomers having levelled the match at 1-1 at one stage.

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1998 and 2018 winners France take on Senegal on Tuesday (June 16) before holders Argentina kick off their campaign against Algeria on June 17. Portugal and England will also play their first matches of the 2026 tournament later that day.

In total, 104 matches will take place across three countries and 16 cities, with the final scheduled for July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New York/New Jersey.

Several A-listers are expected to be present at the final, with Trump reportedly set to be given a special role during the trophy celebrations.

As reported by talkSPORT, the 80-year-old has informed FIFA that he would like to hand the trophy to the champions, with the organisation having no objection despite the move breaking presentation protocol.

Usually, during FIFA trophy ceremonies, a member of the winning team – such as the captain – carries the trophy from a plinth to the podium where their team-mates are waiting.

However, sources close to FIFA say it is at Trump's discretion whether he stands alongside the winners, in a similar fashion to what he did at last summer's FIFA Club World Cup final.

After Chelsea defeated Paris Saint-Germain, the president stood among the players as they celebrated, with many – including Cole Palmer – appearing confused.

What do FIFA rules say about trophy presentations?

Despite reports suggesting Trump handing out the trophy would break protocol, there is nothing in FIFA's regulations that states this is the case.

The rules simply state: "The winner of the FIFA World Cup 26 will be presented with the FIFA World Cup Trophy ('Trophy'), which remains the property of FIFA. The winning team will be provided with the Trophy during an on-pitch ceremony immediately following the final whistle and will return it to FIFA in its dressing room immediately after the ceremonies of the final match and prior to its departure from the stadium. At this time, the winning team shall..."

While the winners receive the trophy, they will also get a souvenir plaque marking their participation, with all 48 participating member associations set to receive one.

A diploma will be presented to the teams ranked first, second and third in the competition.