FIFA World Cup Win Spain's Revenge For Trump's 'Hopeless, Bad People' Comment

Published 20 July 2026 · sports

FIFA World Cup Win Spain's Revenge For Trump's 'Hopeless, Bad People' Comment Published By, Last Updated: July 20, 2026, 12:18 IST Despite the tensions, Trump

FIFA World Cup Win Spain's Revenge For Trump's 'Hopeless, Bad People' Comment Published By, Last Updated: July 20, 2026, 12:18 IST Despite the tensions, Trump attended the World Cup final ceremony, where Spain secured its second men’s World Cup title after defeating Argentina 1-0. Rapid Read Spain’s midfielder #16 Rodri lifts the trophy next to US President Donald Trump during the final ceremony after the 2026 World Cup football tournament final match. (AFP) Spain’s FIFA World Cup triumph came days after US President Donald Trump criticised the country as a “wasted cause" and called for an end to trade ties, creating an unusual backdrop to the trophy presentation ceremony. Trump, who attended the World Cup final, presented the sport’s biggest prize to Spain captain Rodri in front of Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, King Felipe VI and a global television audience.

Earlier this month, Trump had launched a sharp attack on Spain, accusing it of being a poor NATO partner and calling for trade restrictions. “Spain is a wasted cause. We don’t want to do any trade business with Spain anymore, by the way. I’d like to cut it off. Spain is a terrible partner in NATO. Cut off all trade with Spain, please, including visits. We don’t want anything to do. They’re hopeless. Bad people," Trump said. (EFE Noticias) The comments had triggered a diplomatic row, with Spanish officials rejecting the criticism and defending the country’s role within NATO and its relationship with Washington. Despite the tensions, Trump attended the World Cup final ceremony, where Spain secured its second men’s World Cup title after defeating Argentina 1-0.

Ferran Torres scored the decisive extra-time goal in the final held in New Jersey. The presentation placed Trump alongside Spanish leaders as Spain celebrated one of the biggest sporting victories in its history, just days after his criticism of the country. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit Key Questions Answered Could this World Cup win change Spain's global perception? Spain's World Cup victory occurred amidst diplomatic tensions with the US, following President Donald Trump's criticism of Spain as a "wasted cause" and "bad people". Trump attended the final ceremony and presented the trophy to Spain's captain. What are the economic implications of Trump's trade threats? Donald Trump threatened to halt all trade with Spain due to disputes over defense spending and the Iran conflict.