FIFA CREATES NEW GLOBAL PEACE AWARD — FIRST HONOREE IS THE U.S. PRESIDENT AMID SURGE OF CONTROVERSY
At the 2026 World Cup draw in Washington, D.C., FIFA awarded Donald Trump the first-ever FIFA Peace Prize, recognizing what the organization described as his “extraordinary contribution to global peace and unity.”
The global soccer federation FIFA has presented its brand-new Peace Prize to U.S. President Donald Trump, during the 2026 World Cup draw held on December 5, 2025, in Washington, D.C. The award — named the FIFA Peace Prize — is intended to honor individuals whose actions have significantly promoted global peace and unity.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino personally handed Trump a gold-plated trophy, a medal, and a certificate praising his “exceptional and extraordinary actions to promote peace and unity throughout the world.” Infantino said the award was given on behalf of the global soccer community.
Trump accepted the honor on stage and described it as “one of the great honours of my life,” emphasizing what he called his administration’s record on diplomacy and conflict resolution.
The Peace Prize was only announced on November 5, 2025 — making this its first edition. FIFA has not publicly detailed the selection process, prompting immediate questions and scrutiny regarding transparency and the criteria used to designate the prize.
Critics quickly pointed out that the award departs from FIFA’s traditional focus on sport, and many raised concerns about awarding a non-career diplomat with a peace prize. Observers note that several of Trump’s international and domestic policies have drawn controversy, which complicates the narrative of “global unity.”
Supporters argue the move symbolizes a new era of diplomacy blending sports and global leadership, saying the FIFA Peace Prize could reshape how non-state and political actors are recognized in global peace efforts. For now, the world watches as this unprecedented move draws both applause and sharp criticism.
