WASHINGTON D.C. – In a move stirring considerable controversy, former U.S. President Donald Trump was awarded the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize by FIFA President Gianni Infantino at the 2026 World Cup draw held at the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C. today. The award, newly created by FIFA, is intended to recognize individuals who have taken exceptional actions to promote peace and unity through football.
The decision to honor Trump has been met with mixed reactions. While some laud his efforts in fostering diplomatic relations during his presidency, others criticize his divisive rhetoric and policies, questioning whether they align with the spirit of peace and unity the award seeks to promote.
Infantino, in presenting the award, praised Trump as "a leader that cares about the people," emphasizing the desire for "a safe world, in a safe environment". He added, "You can always count, Mr. President, on my support and the entire football community to help you make peace". Last month, Infantino described Trump as "a close friend" with "incredible energy".
The FIFA Peace Prize, officially named "FIFA Peace Prize – Football Unites the World," will be bestowed annually to individuals who have demonstrated unwavering commitment and taken special actions to unite people worldwide in peace. FIFA announced the creation of the prize last month. "In an increasingly unsettled and divided world, it's fundamental to recognise the outstanding contribution of those who work hard to end conflicts and bring people together in a spirit of peace,” Infantino said in a news release. “Football stands for peace, and on behalf of the entire global football community, the FIFA Peace Prize – Football Unites the World will recognise the enormous efforts of those individuals who unite people, bringing hope for future generations".
Trump, who has openly campaigned for the Nobel Peace Prize in the past, expressed his gratitude for the award, stating it was a "tremendous honor" and reiterated his commitment to promoting peace and understanding on the global stage.
The World Cup draw itself proceeded with considerable fanfare, featuring appearances by sports legends such as Wayne Gretzky, Tom Brady, Aaron Judge, and Shaquille O’Neal, who served as draw assistants. The event sets the stage for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, to be held across North America.
The selection of Trump for the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize has inevitably drawn scrutiny, given his controversial political history. Questions have been raised about the criteria used to determine the honoree and whether political considerations influenced the decision. The award ceremony occurred after Trump was beaten to the Nobel Peace Prize by Venezuelan democracy campaigner Maria Corina Machado. FIFA has remained relatively silent on the specific reasons for Trump's selection.
Despite the controversy, FIFA maintains that the award is a testament to the power of football to transcend political divides and promote peace and unity throughout the world. The organization hopes that the FIFA Peace Prize will inspire others to take action and contribute to a more peaceful and harmonious future.
