Juventus Meets Trump Before World Cup Match in Washington

Washington, D.C. — The Juventus soccer team met with U.S. President Donald Trump on June 18, 2025, just hours before their opening match in the World Club Cup. The meeting took place in the Oval Office as the team prepared to face Al-Ain at Audi Field that evening.

Alongside President Trump were key figures from Juventus, including owner John Elkann, FIFA President Gianni Infantino, CEO Maurizio Scanavino, General Manager Damien Comolli, and team director Giorgio Chiellini. Players Weston McKennie, Timothy Weah, Manuel Locatelli, Federico Gatti, Teun Koopmeiners, and Dusan Vlahovic were also present.

The meeting marks a significant moment for Juventus ahead of a highly anticipated match. The team is coming off a strong performance and is eager to prove themselves at this prestigious tournament. Trump took the opportunity to make light conversation, noting the investment in the team and asking about sell-out conditions at the stadium.

“I think you all know John Elkann,” Trump said, referring to the Juventus owner. “He has done amazing work in the automotive industry.” Elkann responded, acknowledging the financial commitments of the team, which fields some of the world’s best players.

As the team was about to depart for the match, Trump expressed interest in the players and made comments about the importance of legal immigration, aiming some statements at the players in attendance. He said, “People come, but they must do it legally. If they can say they love America, we want them.”

Juventus is set to kick off against Al-Ain at 3 AM in Italy. This event is part of the club’s debut in the new four-year World Club Cup format, with high expectations following Manchester City’s earlier victory.