United States President Donald Trump was honoured with the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize on Friday ahead of the 2026 World Cup draw in Washington, D.C. The award, introduced by FIFA president Gianni Infantino, recognises individuals who have taken “exceptional and extraordinary actions for peace.” Trump, who arrived with Infantino, received a golden trophy, medal and certificate before delivering a speech in which he described the honour as one of the greatest of his life.
In his remarks, Trump claimed he had saved “tens of millions of lives” through diplomatic efforts and prevented several wars from starting. He also praised Infantino’s leadership and asserted that the 2026 World Cup co-hosted by the U.S., Canada and Mexico had already set a new record for ticket sales. Trump later joked about the naming divide between American football and what Americans call soccer.
The ceremony took a political tone, held at the Kennedy Center near the White House and featuring appearances by the leaders of co-host nations Mexico and Canada. The three leaders performed the ceremonial draw for their respective countries Mexico in Group A, Canada in Group B, and the United States in Group D before posing for a selfie taken by Infantino.
However, the award has sparked debate over FIFA’s commitment to political neutrality, with critics suggesting the close relationship between Infantino and Trump risks turning global football events into political platforms. FIFA officials have defended the prize, arguing that football’s global influence makes it a fitting avenue to recognise efforts toward peace.
