Andrew Giuliani, executive director of the White House task force for the 2026 World Cup and son of former New York mayor Rudy Giuliani, said he hoped the final between Spain and Argentina would go to extra time. His remarks underlined the scale of anticipation around the match, which was expected to be a major sporting and political spectacle in the United States.

Giuliani described the final as potentially the greatest sporting event ever and praised both finalists, highlighting Spain’s form and Lionel Messi’s influence for Argentina. He compared Messi’s ability in decisive moments to that of Tiger Woods, Tom Brady and Michael Jordan.