Donald Trump: US President Jokes He'll Play in the World Cup Next Year
- Donald Trump has joked that he might play in the 2026 FIFA World Cup next year
- Trump was joined by FIFA president Gianni Infantino as they spoke to reporters on Friday
- The World Cup will be held across the United States, Mexico and Canada in 2026
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Donald Trump humorously suggested he could play in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, calling himself a “very good athlete” who looks “extremely good in shorts.”
The tournament, officially branded as FIFA World Cup 26, will be the 23rd edition of the quadrennial men’s international football championship contested by national teams from FIFA member associations.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be held from June 11 to July 19, spanning 16 cities across three North American countries.
Source: Getty Images
The United States will serve as the primary host, with Canada and Mexico acting as co-hosts, marking the first time the tournament is hosted by three nations.
Ahead of the Mundial, Donald Trump joked that he might take part, describing himself as a “very good athlete” who looks “extremely good in shorts.”
Speaking to reporters alongside FIFA president Gianni Infantino, Trump joked about joining the action when the tournament comes to the U.S. next summer.
“I might play,” Trump said with a grin. “I see the money these soccer players are making… I might give it a try! I’m a very good athlete.”
He also took the opportunity to praise his son Barron, describing him as a standout soccer talent - and exceptionally tall.
'My son is a very good athlete and he's a good soccer player. On the tall side for a soccer player - he's 6'9'. That's pretty tall?'
Infantino replied with a laugh:
'That's pretty tall - but that's good!'
But Trump wasn't done. 'I may put on [soccer] shorts - I look extremely good in shorts - and join the play,' he joked, drawing more laughter from the crowd.
Trump Set to Take Center Stage at 2026 World Cup
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be staged across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, with President Donald Trump previously expressing strong backing for the tournament’s return to North America.
He has confirmed that the World Cup draw will be held in Washington this December.
While he won’t be lining up for the USMNT, Trump is expected to play a prominent role during the competition, much like he did at the recent Club World Cup.
At that event, the US President was sighted on stage with the Chelsea squad when they lifted the tournament trophy at MetLife Stadium after beating PSG last month.
Trump had earlier presented Chelsea and England star Cole Palmer with the golden ball award - however the player appeared bemused by the President's presence.
Afterwards, Trump remained on stage - handing medals players - before passing over the Club World Cup trophy and celebrating as the side lifted the title.
Source: YEN.com.gh
