FIFA President Gianni Infantino has confirmed that he will jointly present the World Cup trophy with U.S. President Donald Trump at the final on July 19. The decision marks a break from FIFA’s long-standing protocol, under which the FIFA President alone hands the trophy to the winning team’s captain. Infantino disclosed the plan during an interview with Fox & Friends, saying, “We are always together.”

The move has sparked renewed debate in the football world about Infantino’s close relationship with Trump. The FIFA chief had previously drawn criticism for awarding Trump the “FIFA Peace Prize” during a World Cup draw event. Trump also broke protocol last season by handing the Club World Cup trophy to Chelsea captain Reece James, which caused confusion among players and widespread criticism. Historically, only FIFA presidents such as Sepp Blatter or Infantino have presented the trophy, though exceptions occurred when Queen Elizabeth II and King Juan Carlos did so in 1966 and 1982 respectively.

Infantino’s latest decision has reignited controversy over the blending of politics and football ceremonies.