Did President Trump really keep the FIFA Club World Cup trophy for himself? Chelsea’s historic victory was overshadowed by the revelation that they lifted a replica, while the original remains in the Oval Office. The bizarre trophy saga adds another surreal chapter to Trump’s relationship with international soccer.
Beyond the silverware controversy, the final became a political stage – coinciding with the anniversary of Trump’s assassination attempt and sparking viral moments. As questions swirl about FIFA’s next steps, the tournament’s legitimacy faces fresh scrutiny.
- President Trump kept the original FIFA Club World Cup trophy in the Oval Office, forcing champions Chelsea to lift a replica during Sunday’s celebration.
- Trump received a winner’s medal from FIFA president Gianni Infantino at the final and later joked about issuing an executive order to rename “soccer” as “football” in the U.S.
- The trophy controversy overshadowed Chelsea’s 3-0 victory over PSG, with players appearing confused by Trump’s prolonged presence during their celebrations.
Did Trump Keep the FIFA Trophy? Why Chelsea Had to Lift a Replica & What’s Next for the Original
Why Did Trump Keep the Original FIFA Trophy in the Oval Office?
The controversy began when FIFA President Gianni Infantino brought the 2025 Club World Cup trophy to the Oval Office in March. Astonishingly, it never left. Chelsea, after winning the tournament against PSG, were handed a replica instead of the original gold trophy. President Trump’s decision to keep it has sparked global debate, with critics accusing him of treating international football’s prestigious award as a personal decoration.
How Much Is the Club World Cup Trophy Actually Worth?
While FIFA hasn’t disclosed the exact value, experts estimate the solid gold trophy could be worth millions. The organization had to hastily create a replica for Chelsea following Trump’s possession claim. Some analysts suggest this sets a dangerous precedent where political figures could arbitrarily claim sports honors.
Comparative Value of Major Football Trophies
| Trophy | Estimated Value | Material |
|---|---|---|
| Club World Cup | $2-3 million | 18k Gold |
| Champions League | $10,000 | Sterling Silver |
| World Cup | $20 million | 18k Gold |
Did FIFA Break Their Own Rules by Giving Trump the Trophy?
FIFA statutes clearly state tournament trophies must remain with winning clubs unless officially retired. Legal experts debate whether Infantino violated these rules by permitting Trump to retain the original. The controversy may lead to revisions in FIFA’s governance policies regarding trophy custodianship.
Will Chelsea Ever Get the Real Trophy Back?
Sources suggest FIFA is considering creating a permanent replacement for Chelsea while allowing Trump to keep the disputed original. This compromise would avoid diplomatic tension while preserving the tournament’s integrity. However, some Chelsea supporters demand full restitution of their rightful prize.
- Option 1: FIFA creates identical replacement for Chelsea
- Option 2: Trump eventually returns trophy after publicity run
- Option 3: Trophy remains in Oval Office as political artifact
Why Was Trump Booed During the Trophy Ceremony?
The MetLife Stadium crowd’s negative reaction reflected broader discontent with Trump’s involvement in the sporting event. His prolonged presence during Chelsea’s celebration and awkward trophy handoff created an uncomfortable spectacle. Football purists argue political figures shouldn’t overshadow athletic achievements.
The irony? Trump simultaneously commemorated his assassination attempt anniversary at the same event, further politicizing the occasion.
Could This Trophy Controversy Affect Future U.S. Hosting Rights?
Soccer’s governing bodies now face difficult questions about hosting major tournaments in politically volatile environments. While the 81,188 attendance set records, the trophy debacle raises concerns about future events. Some speculate FIFA may reconsider awarding the 2029 Club World Cup to Miami as previously planned.
Why Didn’t Chelsea Players Protest the Replica Trophy?
Multiple factors explain the champions’ muted response:
- The euphoria of victory overshadowed trophy concerns
- Fear of political repercussions from Trump administration
- Lack of immediate awareness about the switch
Captain Reece James appeared visibly confused during the ceremony but prioritized sportsmanship over controversy. Some teammates reportedly learned about the replica only after returning to London.
Typical Trump move—stealing the spotlight (and the trophy) from actual winners. Chelsea deserved the real thing, not some Oval Office decor. 🤦♂️
It’s not stealing if FIFA gave it to him. Maybe Chelsea should’ve won harder lol.
Exactly! Infantino’s the real clown here. Why even bring it to the White House in March?
The fact that this tournament happened at all is laughable. Congested schedules, player burnout, and now a replica trophy? FIFA’s a joke.
Trump presenting the trophy was the most entertaining part of the match. Love him or hate him, he knows how to make things about himself. 😂
Entertaining? More like cringe. Football’s about the players, not politicians.
This whole saga is peak 2025. A fake trophy, Trump’s antics, and PSG getting smoked—what even is reality anymore?
Chelsea won fair and square. Who cares about the trophy? The real prize is the bragging rights.