On June 28 at 4:38 PM, Donald Trump shared a message on Truth Social, a platform where his posts often stand out for their unusual tone. That day, he was particularly active, posting at 3:58 PM, 3:59 PM, and twice at 7:42 PM, each message filled with the same quirky, exaggerated flair reminiscent of playful 1970s advertisements.
His posts ranged from boasting about a new ballroom to lamenting the condition of certain golf courses and expressing dissatisfaction with a recent ruling in his sexual harassment case. Notably, he sounded off about a jury being permitted to view a video where he appears to brag about his ability to sexually harass. This behavior is significant, considering he is a former president of the United States.
Amidst this flurry of posts, the 4:38 PM message drew attention for its more subdued tone, notably lacking the usual braggadocio. It also made a rare reference to the World Cup, stating, “The FIFA Numbers are far greater than any World Cup in History. This is a Great Tribute to the United States of America,” in light of the record-setting attendance figures from the event, which has seen 4.6 million spectators so far.
However, these numbers should be interpreted with caution. The sheer volume of matches in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada has already surpassed those of last year’s World Cup in Qatar. Essentially, it’s akin to claiming a larger burger is inherently better simply because it contains more calories.
What stands out most is Trump’s overall absence during the World Cup, which has now spanned 22 days and 82 matches. A president eager to be in the spotlight has yet to make an appearance at a single game, raising questions about his silence. Why is he choosing to stay away?
This appears to be a strategic decision. Trump has built his persona on being an ever-present voice, flooding the media landscape with noise and attention. His absence from the World Cup is a stark contrast to his usual approach.
Trump seems to grasp that in today’s chaotic media environment, constant shouting might not yield clarity; instead, it risks becoming lost in the din. The U.S. and China, in their own ways, have faced challenges due to the overwhelming number of voices vying for attention, with democracy and free speech battling against the backdrop of censorship.
His silence at such a significant cultural event suggests a deliberate move to avoid conflict or backlash. Looking back at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, where Vladimir Putin maintained a low profile despite being present, illustrates this tactic. Putin attended the final and matches involving allies but refrained from making headlines, presenting Russia in a polished light.
During a global event where eyes are fixed on the host nation, avoiding controversy becomes paramount. So far, the predicted tensions surrounding the World Cup have not materialized, with reports of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents largely absent from host cities.
Furthermore, there has been a noticeable lack of inflammatory commentary from right-wing figures regarding the celebrations of diverse cultures at the games. Even military relations with Iran seem to have calmed during this period.
There are simpler explanations for Trump’s reluctance to engage. He has a reputation for being sensitive to criticism and tends to avoid areas where he is unpopular, such as California, which has eliminated the possibility of attending any U.S. matches. Despite a claim from his envoy that he would attend a game in Seattle, the reality remains that he is likely conscious of the boos he would receive.
Football matches are known for their passionate crowds; even mundane actions like a drinks break can provoke jeers. The World Cup is a fleeting event, and many would prefer to let the games unfold without political distractions.
Moreover, football’s unpredictable nature may dissuade Trump from attending. While the sport has a veneer of elitism, it often resists external control, especially in terms of its emotional resonance and team dynamics.
Trump’s relationship with the U.S. women’s national team has been contentious, and the men’s team is notably diverse and representative of the country. This World Cup has become a celebration of multiculturalism, showcasing the contributions of immigrant communities—ideas that clash with Trump’s political narrative.
Ultimately, the image of this tournament will be one of a united team of diverse and gifted players, a stark contrast to the divisive rhetoric often heard in political circles. One figure who may not want to share the limelight? Trump, whose communication style is often loud and unyielding.
While it’s doubtful that the event can bridge the growing divide in society, Trump’s absence from the World Cup represents a calculated choice. It serves as a form of sportswashing while also reflecting a cautious approach. In a world where football currently holds little sway over political matters, it nonetheless may reveal deeper truths about the current climate. For now, Trump may find it best to stay away.
- World Cup
- World Cup 2026
- Donald Trump
- comment
