In a move set to spark international debate, former US President Donald Trump was named the first-ever recipient of the FIFA Peace Prize during a ceremony in Washington DC on Friday.
A Surprise Award at the World Cup Draw
The presentation took place at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, ahead of the official draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Gianni Infantino, the President of FIFA and a noted ally of Trump, personally bestowed the honour. He stated Trump was chosen "in recognition of his exceptional and extraordinary actions to promote peace and unity around the world."
Addressing Trump on stage, Infantino declared, "This is your prize, this is your peace prize," presenting him with a trophy, medal, and certificate. The newly created award is intended for individuals who "help unite people in peace through unwavering commitment and special actions."
Trump's Claims and the Controversial Backdrop
Accepting the award, Trump called it "one of the great honours of my life" and made sweeping claims about his record. He asserted he had "saved millions and millions of lives," citing conflicts in the Congo and between India and Pakistan as examples of wars he helped end. "The world is a safer place now," Trump concluded.
However, these assertions are heavily contested. Critics and foreign policy analysts have disputed the former President's account of his role in resolving global conflicts:
- He claims to have "ended" the Gaza conflict, which continues at a lower intensity with regular Israeli strikes.
- His involvement in the brief Israel-Iran war saw the US actively participate on Israel's side.
- Claims of meaningful intervention in India-Pakistan tensions have been downplayed by the Indian government.
Furthermore, Trump's domestic actions, including military strikes in the Caribbean and threats against Venezuela, contradict his proclaimed peacemaker status. The award aligns with Trump's long-stated ambition to win a Nobel Peace Prize, an ambition he has aggressively promoted.
Deepening Ties Between FIFA and Trump's Orbit
The decision to grant Trump this inaugural honour is likely to intensify scrutiny of FIFA's political alignments. The relationship between Infantino and Trump has grown increasingly visible in the lead-up to the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
FIFA has also strengthened institutional links with Trump's inner circle. Earlier this year, the organisation appointed Trump's daughter, Ivanka Trump, to the board of a $100 million education initiative partly funded by 2026 World Cup ticket revenues.
The selection process for the peace prize itself lacks transparency. FIFA has not disclosed details, though a Guardian investigation found a new committee chaired by controversial Myanmar tycoon Zaw Zaw will propose the process for future awards.
The 2026 tournament, beginning on 11 June and featuring a record 104 matches across 16 host cities, has been promoted by FIFA as an opportunity to "unite the world." The awarding of its first peace prize to such a divisive political figure ensures the event's political dimensions will remain firmly in the spotlight.
