Donald Trump (foto: Official TW/IG/FB account)
Donald Trump went viral at the 2026 World Cup draw after sending an awkward message to Colombia fans, just days after threatening military strikes against drug-producing nations.
Donald Trump went viral after delivering a light-hearted message to Colombian fans during the World Cup 2026 draw in Washington DC — despite escalating diplomatic tensions between the United States and Colombia.
The US President, who made headlines throughout the ceremony, took centre stage after receiving FIFA’s inaugural Peace Prize and even dancing along to the Village People. When approached by a reporter from Colombian network RCN on the red carpet, Trump smiled and said: “Hello, is this Colombia? I love Colombia! Hello Colombia!” before walking away, waving to the cameras.
His comments quickly went viral on social media — largely because they came just days after Trump had sparked controversy by suggesting that countries involved in illegal drug production could face US military strikes. Trump specifically named Venezuela and Colombia as possible targets, saying such operations could begin “very soon.”
Colombian president Gustavo Petro reacted sharply to Trump’s remarks, warning: “To threaten our sovereignty is to declare war. Do not damage two centuries of diplomatic relations.”
Despite the tension, Trump appeared unfazed at the FIFA event, even joking about his own football skills. “Believe it or not, I played soccer,” he told reporters. “I was OK — not Ronaldo or Messi — maybe just a little short of them. But I loved it.”
The president praised the United States’ role in co-hosting the expanded 48-team World Cup alongside Mexico and Canada. “It’s an honour to host. It’s bigger than anyone imagined — record ticket sales, the likes of which no sport has ever seen before,” Trump said.
He also addressed concerns about visa access for international fans, particularly after his administration’s controversial migration policies and travel bans on countries such as Iran and Haiti — both of which qualified for the tournament.
According to the Associated Press, Trump has instructed US embassies to prioritise visa applications for those attending major global sporting events, including the 2026 World Cup and 2028 Olympics. “We’re going to make it very easy for them,” he said. “It’s going to be a very simple process.”
Colombia, meanwhile, were drawn into Group K alongside Portugal, Uzbekistan, and the intercontinental playoff winner between Jamaica, New Caledonia, and DR Congo. Trump ended his comments by saying: “Latin America is great — and they play great soccer. Good luck in the matches!”