As host of the World Cup, Trump had a rare opportunity. He’s wasted it

June 19, 2026 — 5:00am

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Donald Trump has spent more time this week watching UFC than the World Cup. In a sense, he’s been hosting both, the latter as president of the main host nation, but the former in a much more personal way: on the White House lawn to coincide with his 80th birthday and the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. The World Cup, on the other hand, seems more like something that’s just happening. It might be the biggest sporting event in the world, but there’s no sign it’s especially big in Trump’s world.

That’s not a criticism, by the way. Trump has no obligations to attend, and no doubt has far more important things to do – like finally cobbling together a peace deal with Iran, to which we’ll return soon. I should also note that Trump’s counterparts in Canada and Mexico – the other host nations – have also not attended, though for different reasons and in different circumstances. But in Trump’s case it’s interesting: a president who likes to be at the centre of things is shunning the chance to claim ownership of the greatest show on Earth. World Cups and Olympic Games are so often about reflected glory for the hosts. But it’s a glory in which Trump has no interest.

To the extent he has left his mark on the tournament, it’s through his policies. The United States has visa bans and restrictions in place for a quarter of the competing teams, leading to a circus at the border. Iraqi striker Aymen........

© Brisbane Times