Donald Trump jokes he'll play in the World Cup next year: 'I look extremely good in shorts'

Donald Trump joked that he might play in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, claiming he's a 'very good athlete' who looks 'extremely good in shorts.'

Speaking to reporters alongside FIFA president Gianni Infantino, Trump quipped about joining the action when the tournament lands on US soil next summer.

'I might play,' Trump said with a grin. 'I see the money that these soccer players are making… I might try and play! I'm a very good athlete.' 

Trump went on to talk up his son Barron, describing him as a standout soccer talent - and exceptionally tall.

'My son is a very good athlete and he's a good soccer player. On the tall side for a soccer player - he's 6'9'. That's pretty tall?' 

Infantino replied with a laugh: 'That's pretty tall - but that's good!'

But Trump wasn't done. 'I may put on [soccer] shorts - I look extremely good in shorts - and join the play,' he joked, drawing more laughter from the crowd.

The World Cup will be held across the United States, Mexico, and Canada in 2026, with Trump previously voicing strong support for the tournament coming to North America.

Trump confirmed that the draw for the 2026 World Cup will take place in Washington this December. 

While Trump won't actually be on the field for the USMNT next summer, there's every chance he takes center stage at the tournament - similarly to the Club World Cup. 

The US President was seen on stage with the Chelsea squad when they lifted the tournament trophy at MetLife Stadium after beating PSG last month. 

Trump had earlier presented Chelsea and England star Cole Palmer with the golden ball award - however the player appeared bemused by the President's presence.

Afterwards, Trump remained on stage - handing medals players - before passing over the Club World Cup trophy and celebrating as the side lifted the title.

While many at the time were left bemused by the incident, Trump's second-eldest son Eric later said that the US President was invited by the team to join the festivities.

Speaking to BBC Sport, Eric said: 'Listen, he's the Commander-in-Chief of the United States of America.

'The winning team invited him to the stage because they said it would be the greatest honor of their life if the president of the United States could present the Club World Cup trophy.

'And by the way, I was there, I was watching it. The place went crazy. And there's no one that's done more for sport than him'.