The upcoming World Cup is expected to feature a significant break from tradition, with US President Donald Trump potentially presenting the trophy to the winning team.
This would mark a departure from previous tournaments, where the president of the host country has typically presented the trophy alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
Infantino has confirmed that Trump will be joining him on stage to present the trophy, following a precedent set at the Club World Cup last summer, where Trump handed the trophy to Chelsea captain Reece James.
The event will also feature a number of other unique elements, including the presentation of World Cup rings to the winning team, a practice borrowed from the NBA, MLB, and NHL.
A Super Bowl-style half-time show is also planned, which could last up to 25 minutes, breaking the traditional 15-minute interval prohibited by the laws of the game.
Trump's involvement has already raised some eyebrows, with Chelsea star Cole Palmer expressing his confusion at the President's decision to stay on stage after the trophy was lifted.
Palmer said he had been told that Trump would present the trophy and then exit the stage, but the President instead chose to remain and join in the celebrations.
The World Cup is set to take place in the coming weeks, with fans eagerly awaiting the opportunity to see what other surprises the tournament has in store.
