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Cristian Romero Declines Handshake with Trump at World Cup Final

Argentina's Cristian Romero refuses to shake hands with President Trump during the World Cup final medal ceremony after a tough loss to Spain.

Editorial Desk

July 20, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — City, Country — Argentina’s center-back Cristian Romero declined to shake hands with U.S. President Donald Trump during the medal presentation following Argentina’s defeat to Spain in the FIFA World Cup final.

Romero, who was receiving his runners-up medal, stood firm and didn’t extend his hand to Trump, who was among the dignitaries present at the ceremony. The snub occurred amid heightened political tensions and comes on the heels of Argentina’s wrenching loss in extra time. For more on the match, read FIFA World Cup Final: Spain Triumphs Over Argentina in Tense Extra Time.

The incident took place as emotions ran high following the match, which saw Spain clinch the title in a closely contested final. Post-match events were further marred by a brawl involving Argentina’s Leandro Paredes, as detailed in Leandro Paredes Dismissed Post-Match: Argentina’s World Cup Exit Marred by Brawl.

Iconic player Lionel Messi also had an emotional response to the defeat, as covered in Lionel Messi’s Emotional Farewell: Bitter World Cup Defeat. The series of events has drawn significant attention, highlighting the intersection of sports and politics on the global stage.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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Editorial Desk

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