Why is the “Chelsea Trophy” in the President’s Office?
The Club World Cup trophy, which Chelsea secured by overcoming Paris Saint-Germain in New Jersey last July, is currently on display in the President’s Office in Washington.
This sight has sparked curiosity on social media, with many users questioning why the “Chelsea trophy” is located in such a significant office weeks after Enzo Maresca’s team celebrated their victory at MetLife Stadium.
Following the final in July, President Trump mentioned that he was informed he could retain the trophy as a gesture of appreciation for the United States hosting the month-long tournament.
Trump remarked: “When are you going to come get the trophy? ‘They’ said: We’ll never come get it. You can keep it in the Oval Office forever; we’re building a new one,” he stated in an interview with DAZN.
“And they actually made a new one. So that was pretty thrilling, and the trophy is now in the Oval Office,” Trump added.
However, FIFA has clarified that this statement is not entirely accurate. There are actually three versions of the Club World Cup trophy in existence.
The original trophy, complete with an engraved inscription, is housed in Zurich, Switzerland, at FIFA headquarters, consistent with all FIFA trophies, including the World Cup trophy.
One replica is owned by Chelsea, who showcased it during a pre-season match against Milan.
The third version of the trophy is in the Oval Office, “in recognition of the exceptional hosts of the 2025 tournament,” FIFA informed BBC Sport.
The World Club Championship, held across 11 cities in the US, was labeled “the most successful club competition in the world” by its organizers.
Nonetheless, the tournament faced criticism for low attendance, with over a million empty seats recorded, as well as issues related to the weather and the condition of the courts in the United States.
In a unique moment, Trump presented the trophy to Chelsea and remained on stage post-ceremony, celebrating alongside the players, who expressed they were “a little confused.”
After Chelsea’s victory, Trump handed the trophy to captain Reece James, at which point FIFA President Gianni Infantino requested him to exit the stage.
Nevertheless, Trump stayed next to James and goalkeeper Roberto Sanchez, applauding as James lifted the trophy, lingering on stage for a few additional seconds before he and Infantino departed from behind the stage.
The United States, along with Canada and Mexico, will also host the FIFA World Cup in 2026.
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