How Donald Trump could take centre stage at 2026 World Cup after United States presidential election win

Trump sealed a history victory in the US presidential election this week, comfortably defeating Democrat Kamala Harris. The 78-year-old will start his second term in the White House in early 2025, meaning he will be in power for the 2026 World Cup being held in North America. The Daily Mail reports Republican Trump is 'odds-on' to accept the honour of presenting the World Cup trophy to the winners of the tournament on July 19, 2026.

On top of this matter, concerns were raised earlier this year about the lengthy wait times to process visa applications to visit the United States for the World Cup. Some fans from certain countries may not get their applications done before the tournament gets underway, leaving many in limbo. This may be another matter for Trump to deal with at some point.

This will be the first time the US are hosting a World Cup since the 1994 edition of this showpiece event. The final of the 2026 World Cup will take place in New Jersey's MetLife Stadium in America.

The 2026 World Cup will begin on June 11, 2026, and this time round there will be 48 teams competing - up from 32 in 2022. Argentina are the defending champions, having won its third title nearly two years ago.