FIFA Crops Trump Out of Spain's World Cup Victory Photo

FIFA has drawn widespread attention after sharing an official photograph of Spain's 2026 FIFA World Cup trophy celebration that appeared to exclude US President Donald Trump, despite his presence on the podium during the trophy presentation. The edited image, posted on FIFA's social media channels after Spain's 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina, focused on the Spanish players celebrating with the World Cup trophy.

Trump attended the final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey and joined FIFA President Gianni Infantino on the podium to present the trophy to Spain captain Rodri. Television footage showed Trump remaining on stage briefly as the players celebrated before eventually stepping aside. The moment generated widespread discussion on social media, with many users questioning whether he had stayed on stage longer than expected.

The cropped FIFA image quickly went viral, with online users pointing out that Trump had been removed from the frame while the celebrating Spanish players remained the focus. Forbes noted that the edit fuelled further debate surrounding Trump's appearance during the trophy ceremony, although FIFA has not publicly commented on the decision to use the cropped photograph.

The incident follows broader attention on Trump's participation in the World Cup final ceremony, where he became the first sitting US president to attend a World Cup final hosted on American soil. Despite the controversy surrounding the photographs, Spain's victory marked their second FIFA World Cup title, secured through Ferran Torres' extra-time winner against Argentina.