Pedro Sánchez and the World Cup photo with Donald Trump

The World Cup final carried enormous sporting significance with the biggest prize in soccer on the line, but it also became a major political and social event – especially with Donald Trump in attendance. Throughout the week there had been uncertainty over whether Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez would travel to MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Relations between the governments of the United States and Spain have been strained, with ongoing disputes over tariffs and trade highlighting the tensions.

The Spanish prime minister arrived shortly before kickoff and, moments after the national anthems had been played, Sánchez was photographed shaking hands with Donald Trump, in an image captured by our colleague Miguel Morenatti. It was a moment the U.S. president may not have particularly enjoyed. Standing beside them as a witness was King Felipe VI.

Relations between the two countries are currently far from their strongest, with the two governments pursuing very different approaches on a range of issues. Sánchez’s attendance had remained in doubt until Friday, with scheduling commitments, together with the hostile reception he received from Spain’s locker room during the European Championship in Berlin, casting doubt on whether he would make the trip to New Jersey.

King Felipe VI also traveled to support Spain as the team pursued its second World Cup title, this time on what was very much Trump’s home turf. In addition to serving as head of state, the U.S. president effectively took on the role of host at MetLife Stadium. For an hour before kickoff, large sections of the stadium were closed to fans as security locked down the venue ahead of Trump’s arrival.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, whose countries are also co-hosting the World Cup, were in attendance in the VIP box, although there was little doubt that Trump remained the center of attention.

Trump: “I wouldn’t bet against Messi”

“The president of Argentina is a good friend of mine. He’s done a great job. But what I can say is that it’s hard to bet against (Lionel) Messi,” Trump told Fox Sports shortly before the game. “I’m not going to pick a favorite. I just know I wouldn’t bet against Messi. He’s great,” the president added.

Sánchez: “We take the baton”

Sánchez, meanwhile, avoided discussing political differences in comments reported by EFE, instead emphasizing that “there are many things that unite” American and Spanish society before concluding: “Beyond any differences we may have, sport brings people together, and I’m sure today will be one of those days.”

He also added: “We take the baton from a great World Cup, and I’m convinced that we’re going to make it even better.”

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