Video: The Argentinian star slaps Trump.

US President Donald Trump’s presence at Spain’s coronation ceremony as the 2026 World Cup champions following their 1-0 win over Argentina sparked widespread controversy on social media after Argentina defender Cristian Romero apparently ignored him and Spain captain Rodrigo asked FIFA president Giannino Ini to remove him from the champions’ photo.

In a video that went viral on social media, Argentina defender Cristian Romero walked past US President Donald Trump, who was present to hand out awards to the winners and runners-up, without greeting him or shaking his hand, a gesture that sparked widespread reactions and was seen as a clear political message.

Trump’s presence was notable during the official photo of the world champions, as the US president stayed with the Spaniards to take a final photo after presenting the Spanish team with the trophy, although normal protocol calls for officials to stand down after the awards have been handed out.

Spain captain Rodri, who was named player of the tournament, is reported to have asked Gianni Infantino to move Trump aside so the picture could better highlight the world champions and their technical staff in an effort to preserve the secrecy of the historic moment for Spain.

Despite this apparent request from the captain of the championship team, the American president remained in the official photo with the Spanish national team “La Roja”, which sparked widespread criticism on social media, as many believed that his overwhelming presence at the coronation ceremony was an attempt to use the sporting event for political purposes.

It is noteworthy that Donald Trump, who returned to the White House in January 2025, wanted to personally attend the final of the World Cup, which was hosted by the United States in cooperation with Canada and Mexico, trying to emphasize the role of his country in the organization of the largest tournament in the world.