“I am the real hero.” Trump refuses Rhodri’s request and forces himself into the photo

Spain’s 2026 World Cup crowning ceremony turned into moments of tension and embarrassment after Spain captain Rodrigo asked FIFA president Gianni Infantino to remove US President Donald Trump from the champions’ memorial, in an unprecedented situation that sparked widespread controversy.

Trump’s presence in the commemorative photo session to celebrate the title caused some tension and embarrassing moments, as the players and Spanish technical staff wanted the photo to focus on them without the interference of politicians.

Trump attended Spain’s World Cup celebrations and presented the trophy and medals to the Spaniards after their 1-0 win over Argentina at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium before he attempted to pose for the world champions’ official team photo.

In a moment that was not shown on TV footage, Rodri, who won the tournament’s best player award, went to Infantino to ask for the American president to be removed so that the picture could focus only on the players and Spain’s technical staff, in a position that reflected the team’s desire to keep this historic moment to themselves.

Despite this apparent plea from the Spanish national team captain, Trump ultimately stayed with the champions to take one last photo.

The stance is the latest addition to a series of controversial stances witnessed at the World Cup closing ceremony, following a previous incident in which the trophy was handed to Trump in the stands during the match, in a departure from official protocol.