President Donald Trump will not attend the first U.S.-based match of the FIFA World Cup between the United States and Paraguay on Friday in Los Angeles, according to two people familiar with the plans granted anonymity to discuss them.
It’s a notable absence as the United States kicks off its role as co-host of the globe’s biggest sporting event. Paraguay’s president, Santiago Peña, announced Wednesday that he would be traveling to California for the match.
Instead, Secretary of State Marco Rubio will lead the official U.S. delegation to the match, the State Department announced.
The decision comes as the administration navigates a series of diplomatic and logistical challenges tied to the tournament, including visa issues affecting some participating countries and delegations.
Trump has repeatedly touted the World Cup and the 2028 Olympics, also in Los Angeles, as marquee international events taking place during his presidency, casting them as opportunities to showcase American strength.
Peña’s office announced that he will arrive in Los Angeles on Thursday for a four-day visit that will include Friday’s match.