The 2025 Club World Cup final took place on December 13th at MetLife Stadium in New York City. Chelsea, of the English Premier League, defeated Paris Saint-Germain, of Ligue 1, 3-0 to claim the championship. According to reports from the UK’s *The Guardian* and *USA Today*, an awkward moment occurred during the post-match awards ceremony. After presenting the trophy to the winning team, U.S. President Trump, unlike other award presenters, remained on stage to celebrate with the players. This reportedly caused some confusion among Chelsea players standing beside him.
The Guardian reported that Trump stood in “the most prominent position” as Chelsea lifted the trophy. Source: Foreign media
The Guardian reported that boos rang out from the crowd when the camera focused on Trump during the pre-match national anthem ceremony. At the conclusion of the match, Trump, as a guest presenter, joined FIFA President Infantino on stage to award prizes to the participating teams and players.
The report continues, however, that after the two presented the championship trophy to Chelsea, Infantino immediately left the camera’s view, but Trump remained in the most prominent position, standing with the Chelsea players as they awaited the trophy lift. USA Today reported that when the Chelsea players finally began their trophy celebrations, Infantino, who had previously left the camera’s view, “reappeared” and moved Trump to the back row.
It is noteworthy that footage shows Chelsea’s match-winner Palmer, who scored two goals, looking perplexed as Trump remained on stage. The Guardian reported that Palmer later commented on the incident, stating, “I knew he was coming, but I didn’t know he’d be on the stage when we lifted the trophy… I was a bit confused.”
Images show Chelsea player Palmer (center) appearing confused as Trump remained on stage after presenting the award.
According to Spanish newspaper AS, Trump’s “awkward and unexpected action” has sparked heated debate on social media. Some users said they didn’t find it awkward; however, many others voiced criticism and skepticism.
A netizen commented, “This isn’t awkward; it’s a great moment that will encourage more players.”
Another netizen seized the opportunity to create a meme, “Trump joins Chelsea, let’s get started!”
Some netizens also expressed criticism and questioned, “Why is he still there?”, “He seems to enjoy being with the victors.”