'I don't want to go to jail': Spain's Borja Iglesias jokes about meeting US President Trump ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026 final
New York, July 19
Spain forward Borja Iglesias made a light-hearted remark ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 final, joking that he did not want to "go to jail" if he had to shake hands with US President Donald Trump during the post-match trophy presentation after Sunday's title clash against Argentina at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Trump is expected to attend the World Cup final match in New Jersey, prompting Spanish magazine Panenka to ask Iglesias how he would react if he had to greet the US President after the match.
Responding with humour, Iglesias said, "I will shake hands with Trump, but I hope it's quick... I don't want to go to jail," as quoted by Italian news outlet 'Il Messaggero'.
The Celta Vigo striker, who is known in Spain for his outspoken views on social issues, elaborated further on his response.
"I hope to greet him at a time when we are all very happy, and that it ends very quickly so I can forget about it," he added.
Iglesias also made it clear that he did not want the occasion to become a political controversy.
"I don't want to go to jail for refusing. I don't think this is the time to create controversy because people already know very well what I think. I would like to do many things, but the reality is that even if people think I am omnipotent, I don't really have that much power to deal with certain issues," as per Il Messaggero.
While Iglesias' comments have attracted attention off the pitch, Spain remain firmly focused on their bid for a second FIFA World Cup title.
Luis de la Fuente's side head into the final after an outstanding campaign in which they have conceded just one goal, becoming the first team in men's World Cup history to keep six clean sheets in a single edition.
Following an opening 0-0 draw against Cape Verde, Spain have won six straight matches, eliminating Austria, Portugal, Belgium and France to reach the final.
Argentina, meanwhile, are chasing back-to-back World Cup titles after producing another dramatic comeback to defeat England 2-1 in the semifinals. Lionel Scaloni's side have won 14 consecutive matches and are looking to become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the World Cup crown.
The final will also be the first-ever World Cup title clash between the reigning European champions and the reigning Copa America champions.
— ANI
Reader Comments
As an Indian football fan, I love how European players aren't afraid to crack jokes about politicians. Back home, we'd never see a cricketer make such a comment about our PM - we take ourselves too seriously. Spain has the right attitude! Vamos España! 🇪🇸⚽
This is smart diplomacy wrapped in humour. Iglesias knows the optics - Trump would absolutely use a handshake photo op for his own advantage. By joking about jail, he's sidestepping a potential PR disaster. Clever man!
Hold up - we're talking about Trump at the World Cup final? The man who couldn't handle a soccer ball if his life depended on it? 😂 Anyway, Spain's defence has been incredible - 6 clean sheets! As an Indian who grew up watching Maradona, I'm rooting for Argentina, but this Spanish team deserves respect.
Can we talk about how ridiculous it is that Trump is going to the final? The man literally tried to ban Muslims from entering the US. I hope Spain wins and Messi gives him the cold shoulder. Iglesias is a legend for this comment! 🇪🇸
Honestly, I think footballers should stay away from politics. But Iglesias handled it well - he didn't create controversy, just a light joke. Meanwhile, Argentina vs Spain final? As an Indian, I'm torn between Messi and this incredible Spanish team. Both have been phenomenal!
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.