US President Donald Trump has become the inaugural recipient of FIFA’s new Peace Prize, awarded during the 2026 World Cup draw held Friday at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. The honour comes as a consolation for the American leader, whose long-running ambition to win the Nobel Peace Prize remains unfulfilled.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino, a close ally of Trump, presented the award, describing the president’s contributions as exceptional and extraordinary in promoting global peace and unity.
“Thank you very much. This is truly one of the great honors of my life, Trump said after receiving the prize. Gianni and I were discussing this we saved millions and millions of lives.
FIFA established the annual Peace Prize in November to recognize individuals who offer hope for future generations.
Trump’s selection did not come as a surprise, given his strong ties with Infantino, who has met him more frequently than any other world leader since Trump returned to office in January.
Trump has repeatedly argued that he deserves the Nobel Peace Prize for brokering peace efforts this year, including a fragile ceasefire in Gaza.
However, last month, the Norwegian Nobel Committee instead awarded the honour to Venezuelan opposition figure Maria Corina Machado
The award comes at a time when Trump faces criticism from Democrats and international rights groups.
His administration has ordered military build-ups around Venezuela, conducted deadly strikes against suspected drug-trafficking vessels, and imposed aggressive migration crackdowns.
He has also threatened to relocate World Cup games from cities hosting troops and halted asylum decisions from 19 countries including tournament participants Iran and Haiti.
Despite FIFA’s emphasis on political neutrality, the federation has provided little clarity about how the Peace Prize winner was selected.
Human Rights Watch says it has asked FIFA for details on nominees, judges, and voting criteria but has received no response.
Trump has positioned himself at the forefront of a board of peace for Gaza, and Infantino was present during the signing of that peace agreement in Egypt. His administration also renamed a Washington peace institute after him this week.
The US leader has made preparations for the 2026 World Cup a central feature of his second term.
The draw ceremony took place at the Kennedy Center, where Trump earlier this year installed himself as chairman in his cultural battle against what he labels “woke” ideology.
