Trump and the international stars.

New York is set to host its first World Cup final, marking the culmination of 39 days of international football action across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The city, accustomed to hosting major events, is preparing to welcome fans and global celebrities for what promises to be a memorable finale. The match will feature Argentina facing Spain, with both teams having already made their mark throughout the tournament. On the sidelines, former U.S. President Donald Trump will join FIFA President Gianni Infantino to present the winning team with the trophy. Notably absent will be his South American ally, Argentina’s president Javier Milei, who has opted to watch the game from his presidential residence due to superstition, following a similar pattern for all matches involving his country. The Spanish royal family will make a prominent appearance, with King Felipe VI, Queen Letizia, Princess Leonor, and Infanta Sofia attending the event. Their presence aims to keep the focus on the sport rather than political tensions, especially given recent criticisms from Trump toward Spain. He has referred to Madrid as a “lost cause” and even considered imposing trade sanctions after Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez imposed sanctions on Iran. Despite these diplomatic strains, the royal family's attendance underscores the cultural significance of the occasion. New York City officials, including Mayor Zohran Mamdani, will be among the high-profile figures in attendance, alongside a wide array of entertainment industry stars. Hollywood A-listers, musicians, and financial sector leaders will fill the stands, while performers such as Laura Pausini, Tom Cruise, Madonna, Shakira, and Justin Bieber are scheduled to take part in the closing ceremony and the first halftime show in World Cup history. This lineup echoes the grandeur of the Super Bowl, though the inclusion of these performances has sparked some controversy, reminiscent of the backlash surrounding the introduction of cooling breaks during games. Security measures have been heightened at East Rutherford’s MetLife Stadium, which has been renamed the NyNj Stadium for the World Cup. Local police are working alongside federal agents and the Secret Service to ensure safety protocols are fully in place. Weather conditions remain a concern, with heat waves and poor air quality due to wildfires in Canada affecting the city. Authorities have issued advisories urging residents to wear masks and limit outdoor activities until the situation improves. The choice of New York as the venue for the final has reignited debates over the suitability of the stadium. Critics argue that the MetLife Stadium, designed with minimal creativity, is poorly located, difficult to access, and lacks charm compared to other venues used during the tournament. NFL players, who frequently use the facility, have expressed concerns about the playing surface, citing issues such as uneven grass and an overly short pitch. These critiques have been echoed by coaches and players from the World Cup, who found the conditions challenging. While the location was chosen for its ability to host large-scale events, many believe it may not have been the optimal choice for a final of this magnitude. As the city gears up for the event, anticipation continues to build, with fans and media alike eager to witness the conclusion of one of the most anticipated sporting tournaments in recent memory. The stage is set for a night of celebration, controversy, and perhaps even more political maneuvering.