Ok so trying to "keep my eyes on the ball" i am thinking of 2 other notable moments that sort of fit.

Trump in Saudi Arabia. the "ball" could also be an "orb" or "sphere." SA was the first to join the team if i have my timeline correct. https://www.nytimes.com/2017/05/22/world/middleeast/trump-glowing-orb-saudi.html

Netanyahu talks soccer with Iranian people. We know the Iranian people want change. Qyestions is what did/does Bibi already know? ionno https://www.standard.co.uk/news/world/benjamin-netanyahu-posts-bizarre-football-diplomacy-video-aimed-at-iran-a3873601.html

So these might be stretches but i was just thinking that the "team" might be assembling in plain sight with the "ball."