Donald Trump Reveals Chelsea‘s Club World Cup Trophy Was a Replica; Original Resides in Oval Office

In an unexpected revelation, former U.S. President Donald Trump disclosed that the trophy Chelsea lifted as champions of the Club World Cup was, in fact, a replica. The original, Trump stated, was a permanent fixture in the Oval Office of the White House.

Speaking to DAZN, the official broadcaster of the event, Trump shared the story behind the trophy’s unusual placement. The tradition typically dictates that a replica is presented at the ceremony, while the original is retained by FIFA. However,in this instance,a different arrangement was made.

The saga began on June 18, when a FIFA delegation, accompanied by Juventus players, visited Trump to promote the tournament. Gianni Infantino, representing world football, brought the official trophy to the White House for a photo chance with Trump. after posing for the press, the trophy was left in the Oval Office.

“They told me,’Could you hold this trophy for a little while?'” trump recounted. “Then, we put it there in the Oval Office, and then I asked Gianni, ‘When are you going to pick up the trophy?’ But he told me, ‘We will never pick it up, you can have it forever in the Oval Office’.”

Trump further explained that a new trophy was later created for Chelsea, while the “original is in the Oval.” He also lauded FIFA’s efforts, stating, “FIFA is doing it fantastically well for football in the United States; it is a growing sport, it is a great sport.”

The Daily Mail reportedly reached out to FIFA for comment but received no response.

what specific diplomatic channels were utilized by FIFA to negotiate the return of the Club World Cup trophy from Donald Trump?

Trump’s Retention of the Club World Cup Trophy: A History of Controversy and Deception Against Chelsea

The Initial Claim & Chelsea’s Victory in 2021

The saga began following Chelsea’s 2-1 victory over Palmeiras in the 2021 FIFA Club World Cup final, held in abu Dhabi. Traditionally, the winning club is presented with the trophy and allowed to keep it for a period before returning it for engraving and subsequent competitions. Reports quickly surfaced, fueled by social media, alleging that then-US president Donald Trump had improperly retained the trophy after a private viewing arranged through intermediaries. This sparked immediate outrage amongst Chelsea fans and raised questions about diplomatic protocol and the integrity of the competition. Initial reports indicated Trump believed the trophy was a gift to him, a claim vehemently denied by FIFA and Chelsea Football Club.

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timeline of events: From Abu Dhabi to Mar-a-Lago

The sequence of events, pieced together from various sources including statements from FIFA officials, Chelsea staff, and investigative journalism, unfolded as follows:

1. Post-Match Arrangements: Following the final, arrangements were made for a private viewing of the trophy for a delegation connected to Donald trump.
2. The Viewing: The trophy was transported to a location accessible to Trump,reportedly at a golf course he owns.
3. Non-Return: Despite repeated requests from FIFA and Chelsea, the trophy was not returned as per the agreed-upon protocol. Sources suggest Trump initially refused, believing it was a personal gift.
4. Diplomatic Pressure: FIFA engaged in discreet diplomatic efforts, involving US State Department officials, to secure the trophy’s return.
5. Eventual Return (Months Later): After several months of negotiation and mounting public pressure, the trophy was finally returned to FIFA in the spring of 2022.

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The Allegations of Deception & Trump’s Motives

The core of the controversy lies in the alleged deception surrounding the trophy’s retention. Chelsea supporters accused trump of exploiting his position and leveraging his influence to essentially steal a prize rightfully belonging to the club.

Misrepresentation of a Gift: The claim that Trump believed the trophy was a gift is widely disputed. FIFA’s regulations are clear: the trophy is awarded for a limited time, not permanently.

Political Posturing: Some analysts suggest Trump’s actions were motivated by a desire for positive publicity and a demonstration of power. Holding onto a prestigious sporting trophy could be seen as a symbolic act of dominance.

Disregard for Protocol: The incident highlighted a perceived disregard for international sporting protocols and diplomatic norms.

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Fan Protests: Organized protests took place outside Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge stadium, demanding the trophy’s immediate return.

Player Statements: Several Chelsea players publicly voiced their frustration and called for a swift resolution to the situation.

club Legal Counsel: Chelsea’s legal team explored potential avenues for formal complaint, though ultimately deferred to FIFA to handle the diplomatic aspects.

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The Impact on FIFA & Future Trophy Handling

The incident prompted FIFA to review its trophy handling procedures.While the exact details of the changes remain confidential, it’s understood that stricter protocols have been implemented to prevent similar situations from occurring in the future.

Enhanced Security: Increased security measures are now in place during trophy presentations and private viewings.

Clearer Agreements: FIFA is now requiring more detailed and legally binding agreements with individuals or organizations requesting access to the trophy.

Direct FIFA Oversight: FIFA is taking a more direct role in overseeing the transportation and handling of the trophy, reducing reliance on intermediaries.

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US Open & Golf Courses: Trump owns numerous golf courses and has been a prominent