Trump declares no tensions with Spain after World Cup final

Donald Trump stated that there are no longer any tensions between the United States and Spain, following Spain's 1-0 victory over Argentina in the 2026 World Cup final. 'No, no tengo tensiones. No tengo tensiones con nadie' (No, I have no tensions. I have no tensions with anyone), Trump said before boarding Air Force One in New Jersey Source: eldiado. The comment came after Trump congratulated Spain on their win, though he did not specify whether he spoke directly to Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, who was present at the match Source: euronewses.

The match

Trump attended the final at MetLife Stadium, where Spain defeated Argentina in extra time. He presented medals to both teams and handed the World Cup trophy to Spain's captain, Rodri Source: elconfidencial. Before the game, Trump shook hands with Sánchez, King Felipe VI, and Queen Letizia, exchanging brief words behind a bulletproof glass partition Source: eldiado.

Political context

Relations between the Trump administration and Sánchez's government had been strained since Trump returned to office in January 2025, largely due to disagreements over Spain's defense spending commitments within NATO Source: euronewses. The two leaders last met at the NATO summit in Ankara in early July, where similar tensions were evident. Trump's declaration that 'there are no tensions' signals an attempt to reset bilateral relations Source: elconfidencial.