Marco Rubio to represent Trump administration at USA opener as president’s attendance unclear | OneFootball

The State Department said Secretary of State Marco Rubio will attend the United States' World Cup opener against Paraguay in Los Angeles on Friday, representing the Trump administration and calling the tournament a turning point that showcases American leadership and hospitality as the country marks its 250th anniversary. Donald Trump’s attendance remains unclear.

Rubio will be joined by Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin as part of the official delegation.

The United States face Paraguay on Friday in their first match on home soil at the 2026 tournament, co-hosted with Mexico and Canada. Rubio will also hold a bilateral meeting with Paraguay’s president, Santiago Pena, a close ally of Washington.

Group D features Türkiye, Australia, Paraguay and the United States.

Trump has said he intends to attend the World Cup, replying that he would go when asked if he planned to be at one or more matches, but he has given no further details. The build-up has been marked by tensions over the administration’s strict anti-immigration policy, with Rubio among its architects, and some fans fearful of robust checks by ICE.

Source: L'Équipe