At the July 2026 alliance meeting, delegates decided not to mention the global tournament in any conversation with former President Donald Trump.
The step follows the United States men's soccer team’s defeat in the tournament and fears that Trump would become annoyed.
Belgian head of government Alexander De Croo said he would eschew football references with the former president.
Pundits said the USMNT’s early exit brings back talk of a “Trump sports curse”.
The avoidance reflects the group’s aim to keep the summit focused on the security agenda.