The world of football is set to make a highly political statement later today as the first-ever FIFA Peace Prize is awarded, with former US President Donald Trump the anticipated recipient.
A New Award Mired in Controversy
The creation of the FIFA Peace Prize – Football Unites the World was announced by FIFA President Gianni Infantino in early November 2025. It is designed to honour an individual for taking "exceptional and extraordinary actions for peace" that have united people globally.
However, the timing has raised eyebrows. The announcement came just weeks after President Trump was reportedly overlooked for the Nobel Peace Prize, leading many to label FIFA's new accolade as football's direct answer to the Nobel. Infantino, a vocal supporter of Trump, has previously stated the former president "definitely" deserved the Nobel honour.
Presentation at the 2026 World Cup Draw
The award ceremony is scheduled for December 5, 2025, integrated into the high-profile 2026 FIFA World Cup Draw in Washington, D.C. President Trump is expected to play a central role in the draw festivities, using the platform to score political and diplomatic points.
He is slated to meet with leaders from the tournament's co-host nations, Canada and Mexico, during the event. The relationship between Infantino and Trump has deepened since the successful United Bid to host the 2026 World Cup, resulting in the formation of the White House Task Force for the tournament.
Political Diplomacy and Football's Role
FIFA has been forced to explain the close ties between its president and the former US leader. In a statement to CNN, the governing body said: “Since the awarding of the United Bid... the FIFA President has enjoyed a strong relationship with President Trump, along with leaders from fellow co-hosts Canada and Mexico. This has resulted in close collaboration.”
The decision to bestow this inaugural peace prize on such a divisive political figure ensures the award will be debated far beyond the football pitch, blurring the lines between sport, diplomacy, and global politics as the countdown to the 2026 World Cup begins.
