On July 17, US President Trump held a reception at the White House to welcome FIFA President Gianni Infantino and representatives from all walks of football. In their speeches, both sides highly praised the ongoing 2026 North American FIFA World Cup, stating that it has broken historical records in terms of live attendance, global viewership, and socio-cultural impact, and jointly looked forward to the upcoming third-place play-off between England and France, and the ultimate showdown between Argentina and Spain.
FIFA President Infantino's Speech
"Mr. President, dear friends, colleagues, ladies and gentlemen, presidents of football associations from all over the world. Dear Mr. President, today we bring the world together here. Although it is the presidents of football associations from all over the world who are standing here, everyone knows that football is the most important thing in the world, and therefore, today the most important group of people in the world are gathered here."
"The legends of our sport are also here. They have made our hearts beat faster and have made the hearts of billions of people around the world race with excitement. Of course, all members of the FIFA Council are also present. Mr. President, tonight we gather to celebrate this incredible FIFA World Cup."
"Thinking back to the summer of 2018, after the hosting decision was announced, I met with Mr. President for the first time. At that time, I promised you that we would create a great FIFA World Cup. And now, this FIFA World Cup has exceeded everyone's expectations at all levels. The stadiums are full, with 7 million people attending live, tens of millions of fans gathered in major cities in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, and billions of viewers watching on television. Everyone is enjoying the games with happiness, joy, and peace. Mr. President, the American dream has become a reality at this moment."
"We have brought the world together, and we have achieved global unity on the American continent. When I told you that we would host a good FIFA World Cup, you told me that America would welcome the world. And you have truly done so. Everyone who came here had a great time, and everyone who stayed at home also had an extraordinary experience through these beautiful host cities and the wonderful scenes of fans from all over the world gathering together. They are enjoying all of this in peace, happiness, and joy."
"Mr. President, I don't know if you are aware, but FIFA's official definition is: for 120 years, FIFA has been the 'official happiness provider' for all mankind. (Laughter throughout the room) We have always delivered joy and happiness — unless, of course, the supported team loses the game (laughs)."
"All this success is not by chance. I say this because it is true. Mr. President, you don't need others' deliberate flattery, but without you, this FIFA World Cup would never have achieved such astonishing success. Please allow me to thank you, your government team, every staff member of the White House, and the governments of various cities and states. It is through everyone's collective efforts that such a safe, secure, and joyful environment has been created, allowing the world to witness this unprecedented spectacle. This is not only the greatest FIFA World Cup ever, but also an unparalleled event in human, social, and cultural history, and we are all witnesses to it. For this, Mr. President, I am very grateful to you, and thank you for inviting us here."
"There are only two games left in the competition. Tomorrow will see the third-place play-off between England and France, followed by the ultimate final between Argentina and Spain. A new world champion will be crowned, but in fact, the world has already won, America has won, and FIFA has also won. This summer, we have brought the world together in such a way, bringing lifelong unforgettable experiences and memories to hundreds of millions of people around the globe, which is a treasure we will always cherish. Thank you all."
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