Iglesias-Trump Handshake
Spain's Borja Iglesias to Reluctantly Greet Donald Trump at World Cup Final Trophy Presentation
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Key Points
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Iglesias previously refused to play for Spain during Luis Rubiales' presidency after the Jenni Hermoso kiss incident, and he has publicly criticized Rubiales, who was later convicted of sexual assault.
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Iglesias has a history of political activism, including support for pro-Palestinian protesters and for Black Lives Matter, which has included him painting his nails black as a visible symbol.
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Trump has previously attended trophy presentations at FIFA events (notably the Club World Cup) and is expected to hand over the Jules Rimet trophy at the World Cup final.
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Trump has not attended any World Cup matches so far this tournament, but is anticipated to be present for the final to present the trophy.
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Iglesias has seen very limited playing time at this World Cup, having appeared for only about one minute in the tournament, which underlines his role as a squad player rather than a regular starter.
Spain striker Borja Iglesias says he will shake Donald Trump's hand at the 2026 World Cup final — but he won't enjoy it. Spain faces Argentina at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, where Trump is expected to present the trophy to the winners. Mirror reported that Iglesias confirmed he would follow protocol, joking that he wants to avoid "consequences, including prison."
The moment is set to be one of the most politically charged handshakes in sports history. Iglesias is one of Spain's most outspoken players, with a long record of activism that puts him sharply at odds with Trump's worldview. Fox News noted that Iglesias expressed clear reluctance, but said he would not create controversy at a moment of collective celebration.
Why Iglesias Says He'll Shake the Hand
Iglesias was direct when asked about the meeting. He said politeness and protocol would win out. He described the handshake as part of the ceremony — not an endorsement. According to Head Topics, he framed it as a moment of happiness for Spain, not a political statement. He even joked about the risks of refusing a sitting US president.
Trump is no stranger to these moments. He attended the Club World Cup trophy presentation earlier this year. He is expected to hand over the Jules Rimet trophy at the final. Fox Bangor reported that Iglesias said he does not want to cause a scene, even if he strongly disagrees with Trump's values.
Iglesias' Record of Political Activism Sets the Stage
Iglesias has never shied away from politics. He painted his nails black to support Black Lives Matter. He has publicly backed pro-Palestinian protesters. He has spoken out against homophobia in football. These stances have made him one of the most politically visible players in European football.
He also refused to play for Spain during Luis Rubiales' presidency. Rubiales was later convicted of sexual assault after he kissed player Jenni Hermoso without consent at a trophy ceremony. Mirror noted that Iglesias' protest was seen as a principled stand, and it cemented his reputation as a player who acts on his beliefs.
A Squad Player at the Center of the Spotlight
Iglesias has played just one minute at this World Cup. He is a backup, not a starter. Yet he is generating more headlines than most regulars. His public comments about Trump have drawn global attention to a player who would otherwise sit quietly on the bench.
Fox News reported that his role as a squad member means he would still be part of the trophy ceremony if Spain wins. That puts him in line to shake Trump's hand alongside his teammates. One minute of playing time. A lifetime of political identity. That tension is what makes this story hard to ignore.
Spain vs. Argentina Final Carries Extra Political Weight
The final itself is already loaded with meaning. Spain against Argentina is a clash of footballing giants. But Trump's presence adds another layer. He has not attended a single World Cup match during this tournament. The final will be his first appearance at the event, and he arrives as trophy presenter — not just spectator.
Head Topics reported that the handshake moment is expected to draw enormous media attention. Every player will greet Trump on the podium. But Iglesias' turn will be the one cameras focus on. A reluctant handshake, at the biggest sporting event on earth, under the eyes of billions. That is the scene now set for New Jersey.
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