At the July 2026 NATO summit, leaders decided not to mention the global tournament in any conversation with former President Donald Trump.
The decision follows the US men's soccer team’s loss in the tournament and worries that Trump would become irritated.
Belgian prime minister Alexander De Croo said he would steer clear of football references with the former president.
Commentators said the USMNT’s early exit brings back talk of a “sports curse linked to Trump”.
The avoidance reflects the group’s aim to keep the summit focused on security issues.