Donald Trump’s lingering presence beside Spain’s celebrating players wasn’t a blunder; it was a strategy. Body language expert Mark Bowden says Trump clearly registers Infantino’s subtle attempts to guide him away, yet chooses to hover just inside the frame as the glitter cannons erupt. In that split second, the “forever photo” is taken – and Trump has secured his place in it.

What unfolded on that podium was a quiet tug-of-war for status. Players laughed more freely with Infantino, leaning in, sharing genuine joy, while Trump received brisk, minimal contact. His usual off-balancing handshake vanished, revealing how deliberate that move normally is. Only Rodri was held a moment longer, Trump gripping both shoulders in a final attempt to project connection and shared dominance. Even as Spain celebrated a nation’s dream, Trump was fighting a smaller, intensely personal battle: not to be cropped out of history.