As the world's premier soccer tournament gets underway across North America, there is a notable void in the VIP boxes. Former President Donald Trump, the man whose leadership and deal-making prowess paved the way for this historic event, has been completely invisible since the opening whistle. This quiet absence is a striking contrast to the decisive action his administration took to secure this massive economic and cultural victory for the United States.

To appreciate the magnitude of this tournament, one must look back to the high-stakes bidding process of 2018. The "United Bid" was facing stiff international competition, particularly from Morocco, which had mounted a aggressive campaign to host the event. Recognizing the immense economic benefits and the opportunity to showcase American exceptionalism, the Trump administration stepped in with full force. By providing ironclad federal guarantees regarding national security, border integrity, and financial oversight, the administration gave FIFA the confidence it needed to choose North America.

President Trump's personal involvement was instrumental in closing the deal. In 2018 and 2019, he welcomed FIFA President Gianni Infantino to the White House, establishing a strong working relationship built on mutual respect and a shared vision for a historic, high-revenue tournament. Trump’s ability to coordinate a joint bid with Canada and Mexico, while simultaneously renegotiating trade deals like the USMCA, demonstrated a pragmatic approach to foreign policy that prioritized American economic interests and regional cooperation.

This tournament was literally shaped in Trump's image—built on a grand scale, optimized for maximum economic impact, and designed to highlight the world-class infrastructure of American cities. The expansion to a 48-team format ensures unprecedented viewership and revenue, a testament to the business-minded approach of the administration that championed its arrival. It is a monumental achievement of American soft power and diplomatic capability.

Yet, as the games begin and the economic benefits start pouring into host cities, the leader who made it all possible has remained out of the public eye. For supporters who remember the intense lobbying and the pride of winning the bid in 2018, his invisibility is a missed opportunity to celebrate a major conservative foreign policy and economic victory. A public appearance would remind the world of the strength and efficiency of the administration that brought the tournament home.