President Donald Trump announced on Friday that the Kennedy Center will host the much-anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup draw on December 5. The event is particularly significant, as Trump dubbed the venue the “Trump-Kennedy Center,” highlighting his attachment to this cultural landmark in the nation’s capital. FIFA President Gianni Infantino stood by Trump during the announcement, which took place in the Oval Office. Trump remarked, “It’s a tremendous honor to bring the global event and this incredible group of people and these unbelievable athletes, the best athletes in the world, to the cultural center of our nation’s capital.”
The size and significance of the World Cup were emphasized during the conversation. Trump compared the magnitude of the event to a series of “Super Bowls,” echoing sentiments expressed by Infantino. “The World Cup draw will set up the group stage of competition; 48 teams will play in 104 games across 16 North American cities, from Seattle to Vancouver to Atlanta to Miami. It’s going to be so exciting for our country,” Trump stated.
Trump’s enthusiasm for the event was palpable as he explained, “The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be one of the largest and most complex events…In a way, it’s like — Gianni said it better — it’s like having many Super Bowls in a short period of time because each one of these games essentially is a Super Bowl.” This comparison illustrates both the excitement surrounding the tournament and its competitive nature.
Furthermore, Trump noted the economic impact the World Cup would have, projecting it could infuse $30 billion into the U.S. economy and create nearly 200,000 jobs. “The Kennedy Center will give the World Cup festivities a phenomenal kick-off,” he asserted, underlining the significance of the venue in starting the celebrations for this prestigious event.
During the announcement, Infantino contributed to the spectacle by presenting Trump with the FIFA World Cup trophy. He noted, “Only the FIFA president, presidents of countries, and then those who win can touch it because it’s for winners only, and since you are a winner, of course, you can as well touch it.” This moment highlighted the trophy’s exclusivity and reinforced Trump’s status in this context, suggesting a camaraderie between them.
With a hint of humor, Trump asked Infantino, “Can I keep it?” which elicited laughter among those present. Infantino replied, “It fits well here, I think, until we have to give it to the next winner.” This exchange showcases Trump’s playful demeanor during high-stakes announcements and the light-hearted atmosphere of the event. Infantino also presented Trump with a ticket to the World Cup final, further building excitement for the upcoming tournament.
The announcement at the Kennedy Center was rich with anticipation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. It underscored Trump’s historical role in securing North America as the host and highlighted the event’s potential impact on the economy and national pride. With a blend of seriousness about the competition and jovial interactions, the occasion marks a significant step toward one of soccer’s grandest showcases in the United States.
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