In a symbolic act that unites politics, sport and entertainment, U.S. President Donald Trump was on hand to present the trophy to Chelsea FC following its resounding 3-0 victory over Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in the final of the first-ever 32-team FIFA Club World Cup.
The event was held at MetLife Stadium in front of more than 81,000 spectators on Sunday, July 13.
A historic final with a British stamp
President Trump was accompanied by First Lady Melania Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino, with whom he has a close relationship.
From the presidential box, the two watched intently a match that crowned the English club with a blistering first-half performance.
Chelsea, led by Enzo Maresca, dominated from the start and left Luis Enrique’s PSG, who had just eliminated Real Madrid with authority in the semifinals, with no response.
Cole Palmer was the star of the match with a brace (22nd and 30th minutes) and an assist to Joao Pedro, who sealed the score in the 43rd minute.
Chelsea’s tactical approach was impeccable: high pressing, quick recovery and attacking down the flanks.
Palmer was constantly unbalanced on the right flank, while Joao Pedro exploited every gap in the Parisian defense.
Moisés Caicedo, who was doubtful due to ankle discomfort, was key in the midfield, and Spanish goalkeeper Robert Sánchez prevented any PSG comeback attempt with some very meritorious saves.
Chelsea, Club World Cup champion
THE TROPHY IS OURS!!! 🔵 pic.twitter.com/FhvHlgNO3c
– Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) July 13, 2025
After the final whistle, Donald Trump descended onto the pitch alongside Infantino to present the trophy to Chelsea captain Reece James.
The president not only participated in the ceremonial ceremony, but also remained on the field celebrating with the players, something unusual for a head of state.
The image of Trump surrounded by soccer players and cameras at MetLife Stadium captured international attention.
This gesture reinforces the Trump administration’s political and diplomatic bid to project the United States as a host and player in world soccer.
The final also served as a prelude to the 2026 World Cup, which will be organized by the USA, Mexico and Canada, and whose final will also be played in this New Jersey stadium.
PSG: from favorite to frustrated
PSG arrived as favorites after a stellar season and a flawless tournament, but failed to show their best in the final.
On Wednesday they had ‘crushed’ Real Madrid 4 goals to 0.
Joao Neves was sent off in the 85th minute after a hard foul on Marc Cucurella, and the likes of Dembélé and Kvaratskhelia went unnoticed.
The French team ended in frustration a season that promised a six-team title.
Although neither Chelsea nor PSG are Latin American clubs, the tournament had an outstanding presence of Hispanic teams and players, such as Palmeiras and Fluminense, as well as Ecuadorian, Colombian, Mexican and Argentine players who shone at various stages of the championship.
The organizational success of the tournament, held for the first time with 32 clubs, is a good sign for the growing Hispanic soccer community in the U.S., which will see its country become the epicenter of world soccer in the coming years.
