In a surprising move, FIFA President Gianni Infantino awarded the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize to former US President Donald Trump. The award was presented on December 5, 2025, at the FIFA 2026 World Cup draw in Washington, D.C. Despite the controversy surrounding the decision, Infantino praised his "close friend" and highlighted Trump's alleged contributions to global peace.
The FIFA Peace Prize was introduced to recognize individuals who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to uniting people across the globe in the spirit of peace. Infantino's decision to bestow the inaugural award on Trump has been met with both praise and criticism. While some applaud the move as a nod to Trump's diplomatic efforts, others see it as a politically motivated decision that undermines the award's credibility. The formation of the FIFA Peace Prize was announced by Gianni Infantino on November 5, 2025, during the America Business Forum in Miami. The creation of the award was inspired by the motto of uniting people all over the world in peace, a goal that FIFA hopes to achieve through the prize.
Critics argue that Trump's political history, marked by contentious foreign policies and controversial statements, makes him an unconventional recipient for a peace award. Some speculate that Infantino's decision may have been influenced by a desire to align with Trump's political agenda, given their close friendship. This has led to questions about the impartiality and integrity of the prize, which was intended to be a high honor in the realm of international peace efforts.
Infantino's decision to present the award during the World Cup draw ceremony has also raised eyebrows. The high-profile event showcased FIFA's commitment to promoting peace and unity, but the timing of the award presentation has been viewed by some as an attempt to garner political support for both Trump and Infantino. Despite the controversy, the presentation of the prize has sparked a broader conversation about the role of sports organizations in promoting peace and the criteria for awarding such prestigious honors.
While the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize has been awarded, the controversy surrounding Trump's selection serves as a reminder of the complex intersection between sports, politics, and global peace efforts. As FIFA continues to develop this new initiative, the organization will face ongoing scrutiny regarding its choices and the broader impact of its peace-promoting activities. The future of the FIFA Peace Prize will depend on whether it can garner widespread support and recognition or remain mired in controversy.
