Days before a controversy involving U.S. player Folarin Balogun's red card during the World Cup match between the U.S. and Belgium, former President Donald Trump was presented with a custom-made, 18-carat gold ring.
The ring, described as "Super Bowl"-sized and reportedly valued at $1 million, was gifted to Trump during an America 250 celebration held in Brussels' Parc du Cinquantenaire on June 28. The event, hosted by U.S. Ambassador to Belgium Bill White, honored the 250th anniversary of the United States' independence and featured a concert by the Zac Brown Band, a NATO flyover, and a drone and fireworks show.
The elaborate piece of jewelry was created by Antwerp jeweler David Gotlib and features 321 diamonds, 56 sapphires, and six rubies. It also includes "Superman" logos, large diamond "T" insignias on the sides over American flags, and a presidential seal. The ring was engraved with the words "Crafted in Antwerp for Donald John Trump," referencing Trump's earlier decision to lift U.S. tariffs on Belgian diamond imports.
Trump, who was not present in Brussels in person but appeared via video message, expressed his gratitude for the gift. An insider suggested the ring would likely be displayed at the Oval Office and later at his presidential library in Miami.
The presentation of the ring occurred shortly before Trump's alleged involvement in FIFA politics regarding Balogun's red card in the World Cup match. Trump reportedly contacted FIFA chief Gianni Infantino, and the suspension was subsequently overturned. Belgium ultimately won the match, with the team posting a retort on social media, "Overturn this."
Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever commented on the match's outcome and its potential impact on Trump, noting that the defeat would "hit hard." He also observed that Trump has a reputation for reacting irritably to unfavorable situations.
Attendees at the America 250 celebration included Ambassador White, his husband Bryan Eure, U.S. Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, U.S. Ambassador to the EU Andrew Puzder, and EU Parliament President Roberta Metsola. The event reportedly raised nearly $6 million from U.S. and Belgian companies.
Following the event, there were reports of potential damage to the Cinquantenaire's Royal Museum of Art and History, with initial investigations considering whether the fireworks display or a preceding severe thunderstorm was the cause. Ambassador White stated that the event organizers were in contact with the fireworks company and that any necessary repairs had been completed, leaving the site in perfect condition.