DONALD TRUMP was spotted touching the World Cup trophy in the early stages of the final – leading to fans hitting out.
The American President, 80, handed over the coveted piece of silverware to Spain after they eventually beat Argentina 1-0 following extra-time.
Trump was seen sitting alongside his wife Melania and Fifa supremo Gianni Infantino as Spain locked horns with Argentina.
But fans were stunned when TV cameras captured the billionaire taking the chance to grab the trophy.
Infantino appeared to motion for Trump to touch the tournament’s golden prize when it was presented to him by Brazilian legend Ronaldo.
Stunned viewers raced onto social media claiming an unwritten rule had been broken.
One said: “Trump groping the World Cup trophy with Infantino in a VIP booth was vomit-inducing.”
Another added: “Trump touched the World Cup trophy even though only winners can touch.”
A third chimed in: “Did Trump just touch the trophy???? It isn’t even allowed.”
Guidelines do NOT stipulate that only winners are allowed to get their hands on the trophy.
But it is a widely-held belief, leading to fans being infuriated when they saw the moment unfold.
Trump was sitting behind bulletproof glass for the mouth-watering clash between Spain and Argentina.
And he sensationally outlined plans for the USA to stage another World Cup while he is still in power.
In an interview with Fox Sports before the final, Trump said: “Based on the numbers we will be requesting it immediately.
“We have to do this again, and we have to do this again while I am around, hear that Gianni?”
But, under Fifa rules, USA will not be eligible to host another World Cup until 2038 at the earliest.
Ferran Torres scored the only goal of the game as Spain beat Argentina.
Lionel Messi and Co endured a frustrating night as they failed to register even one shot on target in 120 minutes.