FIFA, Spain Crop Trump From World Cup Trophy Photos As White House Hits Back

FIFA, Spain Crop Trump From World Cup Trophy Photos As White House Hits Back

FIFA and Spain reportedly removed US President Donald Trump from official social media photos showing Spain’s World Cup trophy celebrations, prompting the White House to respond with unedited images highlighting his presence at the ceremony.

Trump presented the medals and World Cup trophy after Spain defeated Lionel Messi’s Argentina in the final. He remained on the stage as the Spanish players lifted the trophy before FIFA President Gianni Infantino eventually guided him away to allow the team to celebrate.

Several photographs captured Trump standing alongside the newly crowned champions.

Spain later posted edited images of the trophy celebration in which Trump had been removed. FIFA also shared cropped versions of the celebrations that excluded both Trump and Infantino, according to The Mirror US.

The White House responded by releasing several images and an Instagram video showing Trump celebrating with the Spanish players. Two of the photographs focused exclusively on the US president.

The incident marked the second time in a year that Trump had presented a major football trophy at the same stadium. Twelve months earlier, he had also presented Chelsea with the Club World Cup trophy.

Trump’s prolonged presence on the podium attracted attention from broadcasters and commentators, while boos were reportedly heard as he walked onto the pitch ahead of the presentation ceremony. Despite the mixed reception, several Spain players appeared to enjoy the moment, with some performing the “Trump dance” while he stood beside them.

Speaking after the final, Trump praised both teams and described the tournament as a success.

“​​They both played well. I would say Spain played better. It was very exciting. It looked like Spain dominated, but it was a very close match,” he said.

He also praised the World Cup, saying: “The World Cup is one of the greatest events of any kind. We are really happy it did so well. People have come from all over the world and loved our country. We have shown our country in a different light and it was a great thing.”