Trump to skip US World Cup opener against Paraguay; Rubio to lead delegation in Los Angeles

The empty seat

President Donald Trump will not be at Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood, California, when the United States men's national team plays its opening World Cup match against Paraguay on Friday. Four people close to tournament planning or familiar with his schedule, speaking anonymously, told The New York Times they do not currently anticipate his attendance. Two other sources confirmed the absence to POLITICO and the Axel Springer Global Reporters Network. The White House has not publicly commented, and Trump's plans remain subject to change.

They do not currently anticipate that Trump will attend the game.

The official delegation

Secretary of State Marco Rubio will lead the US delegation, the State Department confirmed on Wednesday. He will be joined by Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy and Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin. On the margins of the match, Rubio is scheduled to meet Paraguayan President Santiago Peña to discuss regional security, trade and investment, and emerging technology.

A notable absence

It would be highly unusual for a host nation's head of state to skip their team's opening World Cup match. The Emir of Qatar attended in 2022, Vladimir Putin of Russia in 2018, and Dilma Rousseff of Brazil in 2014. Trump has repeatedly called the World Cup and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics prestige projects of his term, highlighting them as chances to showcase American strength on the global stage. He also has a strong relationship with FIFA president Gianni Infantino, having received the FIFA Peace Prize at the World Cup draw in December.

The other president

Paraguayan President Santiago Peña will travel to California specifically for the match, his office announced. The contrast between the two leaders' plans has drawn attention in European media, with Swiss outlet 20 Minuten noting the surprise of Trump's absence given the host-nation role.

A full sports calendar

Trump has attended a series of high-profile sporting events since returning to the White House, including Game 3 of the NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden this week, where he was booed. He has also been at the Super Bowl in New Orleans, UFC fights in Miami and New Jersey, the Daytona 500, the NCAA Wrestling Championships in Philadelphia, the FIFA Club World Cup final at MetLife Stadium, and the US Open men's tennis final. On Friday, he is expected in Washington D.C. for walk-throughs of a weekend UFC event.

The FIFA World Cup is a landmark moment for the Trump Administration, showcasing American leadership and hospitality to a global audience as the nation celebrates its 250th anniversary.

Diplomatic backdrop

The decision comes as the US government faces diplomatic and organizational challenges around the tournament, including visa issues for some participating countries and delegations. The State Department framed Rubio's attendance as part of advancing the US-Paraguay strategic partnership.