Overview

• Marc Cucurella revealed that players were told not to lift the trophy until President Trump vacated the stage and admitted he was “scared s***less” by the unexpected delay.
• Donald Trump stayed on stage after presenting a replica Club World Cup trophy and individual medals despite FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s request to step aside.
• The trophy handed to captain Reece James was a replica while the original remained in the Oval Office, raising questions about the authenticity of the awards.
• Cole Palmer and other Chelsea stars showed visible confusion during the ceremony, highlighting player unease over the blending of sport and political spectacle.
• FIFA has so far declined to comment on these unprecedented deviations from its ceremonial protocols, fueling debate over governance and tradition in international football presentations.