President Donald Trump will not attend the first United States-based match of the FIFA World Cup between the US and Paraguay on Friday in Los Angeles, according to two people familiar with the plans granted anonymity to discuss them. It is a notable absence as the United States officially kicks off its role as a co-host of the globe’s biggest sporting event this week.
Conversely, Paraguay’s President Santiago Peña announced on Wednesday that he would be traveling to California for the highly anticipated match. Instead, Secretary of State Marco Rubio will lead the official US delegation to the opening match, the State Department announced.
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The high-profile decision comes as the administration navigates a series of complex diplomatic and logistical challenges tied to the tournament, including visa issues affecting some participating countries and delegations.
Trump has repeatedly touted the World Cup and the 2028 Olympics, also scheduled for Los Angeles, as marquee international events taking place during his presidency, casting them as opportunities to showcase American strength. Peña’s office announced that he will arrive in Los Angeles on Thursday for a four-day visit that will include attendance at Friday’s match.
The president will remain at home as his country takes the field to open their tournament group stage.
