Trump says he will attend the World Cup.

US President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that he plans to attend the World Cup as the global football tournament prepares to begin.

“I will, I will,” Trump replied when an AFP reporter asked him in the Oval Office whether he intended to watch any World Cup matches.

He did not provide further details, but FIFA chief Gianni Infantino has indicated that he expects Trump to present the trophy to the winning team at the final on July 19.

Last year, Trump performed the same role at the FIFA Club World Cup final held at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, the venue that will also host the World Cup final. He was booed during that ceremony.

The Republican billionaire has sought to leave his mark on the World Cup, which is being jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada. He has repeatedly highlighted his role in securing the bid during his first term as president.

Trump has also cultivated a close friendship with Infantino, who awarded him a special peace prize in December, shortly before U.S. military operations in Venezuela and Iran.

“I spoke to Gianni this morning… he said there’s never been anything close” to the success of the upcoming tournament, Trump said.

The World Cup has faced off‑field challenges, including high ticket prices and an immigration crackdown that has prevented fans, team officials and a top Somali referee from entering the United States.

Trump said his administration was addressing the issue.

“We’re working on it very closely to ensure the right people come into our country,” he told reporters.

Vanguard News

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