EAST RUTHERFORD: Boos rang out from sections of the crowd as United States President Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino walked onto the pitch for the World Cup trophy ceremony at New York New Jersey Stadium on Sunday.
The reaction appeared to reflect discomfort among some fans over Trump’s highly visible role at football’s biggest event and Infantino’s increasingly close relationship with the US president.
Trump attended the FIFA World Cup final between Argentina and Spain and later joined Infantino for the presentation ceremony after Spain’s dramatic 1-0 victory.
FIFA had earlier confirmed that Trump would be present to help present the trophy, making him a central figure in the closing moments of the tournament.
For some spectators, the presence of a deeply polarising political figure at the trophy ceremony turned a sporting celebration into a political moment.
Infantino has also faced criticism for his warm public relationship with Trump. In December, FIFA awarded Trump the first edition of its newly created FIFA Peace Prize, a move that drew attention to the football body’s growing political symbolism.
The boos came as Trump and Infantino stepped onto the field before medals and the trophy were handed over. The reaction later faded as they began presenting medals to players and coaches.
On the pitch, Spain delivered the decisive moment in extra time when Ferran Torres scored the winner to seal a 1-0 victory over Argentina.
The win gave Spain their second World Cup title after their first triumph in 2010.
