Trump’s expected absence would remove one of the tournament’s most visible political storylines from the stadium, at least for now. He had been expected to feature around the opening of the host nation’s campaign, including the ceremony linked to the first match.
That possibility has weakened in recent hours, according to the report. The decision appears to be driven by scheduling rather than a change in the administration’s interest in the tournament.
For the United States, the sporting focus remains clear: Paraguay will provide the opposition in Los Angeles, where attention will quickly shift from the guest list to the team’s performance.
The report says the administration will still have senior representation at the match. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy and Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin are expected to attend.
Their presence would ensure a formal government delegation even if Trump does not make the trip. It also reflects the broader significance of a World Cup co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada, where football, diplomacy and event security are closely connected.
The opening tournament schedule adds to the occasion, with Mexico due to begin the competition against South Africa roughly a day before the United States takes the field.
Trump’s plans are not final, and the report says both the Los Angeles visit and the Washington schedule could still change. That leaves room for a late decision, particularly if the administration places greater emphasis on the symbolic value of attending the hosts’ first match.
For now, the next storyline is the final attendance call before kickoff. Once the teams enter the stadium, the central question will be whether the United States can turn a politically charged home opener into a strong start on the pitch.