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President Donald Trump not attending USA’s opening World Cup game vs Paraguay
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- President Donald Trump not attending USA’s opening World Cup game vs Paraguay
Photo by Roberto Schmidt/Getty Images
The 2026 World Cup kicks off on Thursday, while the United States of America get their campaign underway on Friday night.
Mauricio Pochettino's side have been drawn in Group D along with Paraguay, Turkey and Australia.
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Their first meeting at the tournament takes place against the former of that trio, but despite the usual tradition, President Donald Trump won't be attending, it has been reported.
Photo by John Dorton/USSF/Getty Images
Donald Trump not attending USA vs Paraguay
While the USA are not the only host nation this summer, games will also take place in Mexico and Canada, it is generally the norm that the leader of the World Cup hosts attends the first game.
However, it has been reported in Politico that Trump will not make the trip to the Los Angeles Stadium for Friday night's game between the USMNT and Paraguay.
Paraguayan President Santiago Peña will attend the game, while the U.S Department of State has confirmed that Secretary of State Marco Rubio will be at the fixture as part of the U.S. delegation.
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In a statement , they said: "Secretary of State Marco Rubio will travel to Los Angeles, California, June 12–13, to lead the U.S. delegation to the U.S. Men's National Team's first FIFA World Cup 2026™ match versus Paraguay.
"The delegation will include Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy and Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin. The FIFA World Cup 2026™ is a landmark moment for the Trump Administration, showcasing American leadership and hospitality to a global audience as the nation celebrates its 250th anniversary.
"On the margins of the match, Secretary Rubio will meet with Paraguayan President Santiago Peña to advance the U.S.-Paraguay strategic partnership spanning regional security, trade and investment, and emerging technology."
After facing Paraguay, the USMNT will take on Australia on June 19 before facing Turkey on June 25 to round out their group campaign.
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There has been no word on whether Trump will be in attendance for any of those matches.
He is, however, expected to make an appearance at UFC Freedom 250, which takes place at The White House on June 14.
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