FIFA president Gianni Infantino on Friday bestowed the newly created FIFA Peace Prize on US President Donald Trump during a glittering ceremony at the Kennedy Center, ahead of the draw for the 2026 World Cup co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
The award, announced just last month without consultation from FIFA’s governing bodies, recognises individuals for “exceptional and extraordinary actions for peace” that unite people worldwide, according to the global football body’s statement.
Infantino, presenting the prize on stage, hailed Trump’s efforts, declaring: “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.”
Trump, accepting the honour, described it as “truly one of the great honors of my life” and claimed: “Beyond awards … we saved millions and millions of lives.”
He cited interventions in conflicts, stating: “The Congo is an example, over 10 million people killed and it was heading for another 10 million very quickly. India and Pakistan, so many different wars we were able to end, in some cases just before they started.”
The presentation capped a high-profile event blending sport and diplomacy, with Trump sharing the stage with leaders including Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.
FIFA framed the prize as a beacon for unity, with Infantino earlier emphasising: “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.”
Yet the decision sparked criticism over lack of process. Human Rights Watch director Minky Worden noted: “You could infer that there is no process, there are no other nominees, there was no judging.”
The award follows Trump’s public pursuit of the Nobel Peace Prize, which went to Venezuelan opposition leader MarÃa Corina Machado this year. Infantino had previously posted on Instagram that Trump “definitely deserves the Nobel Peace Prize for his decisive actions.”
Observers point to the close relationship between Infantino and Trump, including joint appearances at a Gaza peace summit, as influencing the prize’s creation and selection.
FIFA declined to detail criteria, nominees or decision-makers, despite inquiries.
The ceremony concluded with the Village People performing “Y.M.C.A.”, a staple of Trump’s campaign rallies, before proceeding to the World Cup group draw.
As the expanded 48-team tournament approaches, the prize underscores football’s growing intersection with global politics.
