FIFA Excludes Trump From Official World Cup Victory Photos

Social media activity from global sports organizations has drawn attention following Spain’s victory over Argentina in the World Cup final. Official imagery released by FIFA celebrating the Spanish team’s trophy presentation at MetLife Stadium appears to have been digitally altered to exclude former U.S. President Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino. The edited photos follow an on-stage ceremony where Trump remained visible during the team’s celebration, despite protocols suggesting he would exit after presenting the award.

The presentation ceremony, which took place Sunday, reportedly drew audible negative reactions from the crowd when the dignitaries entered the field. Video footage circulated by commentators suggests an awkward interaction as Infantino attempted to guide Trump away from the center of the stage while the team attempted to lift the trophy. Despite the crowd noise, at least one Spanish player mimicked a dance popularized by the former president during the celebration.

This is not the first instance where trophy presentation logistics have created unusual visuals. A similar situation occurred previously at the Club World Cup involving Chelsea, where Trump remained in the foreground during the team’s trophy lift. Chelsea players later indicated that they had been told the presenter would exit the stage prior to the photo opportunity.

The broadcasting and presentation of major global sporting events often fall under the purview of massive media rights holders. For example, Comcast Corporation operates extensive media and sports broadcasting assets through its segments, though it was not specifically involved in the social media decisions described here. The company’s stock was recently trading at $23.63, reflecting a slight decline.

What to watch

• FIFA’s official social media channels for further coverage of the tournament aftermath.
• Upcoming earnings reports from media companies holding sports broadcasting rights.

Source: original release