What's happened
On December 5, 2025, FIFA President Gianni Infantino awarded US President Donald Trump the first-ever FIFA Peace Prize during the 2026 World Cup draw ceremony in Washington DC. The prize recognizes Trump's efforts in brokering peace deals, including a Gaza ceasefire, despite criticism over his administration's military actions and human rights record. The event highlighted Infantino's close ties with Trump amid global controversy.
What's behind the headline?
FIFA's Peace Prize: A Political Gesture More Than Sporting
The inauguration of the FIFA Peace Prize and its immediate bestowal on Donald Trump reveals a strategic alignment between FIFA's leadership and the US president rather than a purely sports-driven accolade. Gianni Infantino's repeated public endorsements of Trump and the establishment of a prize seemingly tailored to him underscore FIFA's intent to solidify ties with the US ahead of the 2026 World Cup co-hosting.
Contradictions and Controversies
While the prize ostensibly celebrates peace efforts, Trump's administration has simultaneously conducted lethal air strikes in the Caribbean and amassed military assets near Venezuela, actions widely condemned as extrajudicial and provocative. Critics highlight the dissonance between awarding a peace prize and Trump's record on human rights and foreign policy, including unwavering support for Israel amid its conflict with Gaza.
Impact on FIFA's Image and Global Football
Infantino's refusal to sanction Israel or address geopolitical conflicts within football, coupled with the politicized award, risks undermining FIFA's proclaimed neutrality and the unifying power of sport. The move may alienate fans and officials who view FIFA's actions as complicit or politically biased, especially given the tensions surrounding the World Cup venues and participating nations.
Forecast and Consequences
This award will likely deepen divisions within international football governance and among global audiences. FIFA's close association with Trump may influence the tournament's atmosphere and diplomatic relations, potentially affecting participation and fan engagement. The prize sets a precedent for politicizing sports awards, which could reshape how global sports bodies engage with political figures in the future.
What the papers say
Ali Harb of Al Jazeera reports on the award ceremony, highlighting Infantino's praise for Trump's peace efforts and the criticism from rights advocates who call the prize a "truly shameful development" given Trump's military actions and human rights record. The Times of Israel notes Infantino's close alliance with Trump and the presentation of a gold trophy and medal, emphasizing the political departure from FIFA's traditional focus on sport. The New Arab and France 24 echo these points, noting the controversy amid Trump's hardline policies and lethal strikes in the Caribbean. The New York Times reveals internal FIFA dissent, describing the prize's creation as a move by Infantino to ingratiate himself with Trump, surprising senior FIFA officials. Politico uncovers frustration among international soccer officials over Infantino's alignment with Trump, which clashes with promises of an inclusive World Cup. These contrasting perspectives illustrate the tension between FIFA's sporting mission and political entanglements, providing readers with a nuanced understanding of the award's implications.
How we got here
FIFA created the Peace Prize in November 2025 to honor individuals promoting peace globally. The 2026 FIFA World Cup, hosted by the US, Mexico, and Canada, is the first to feature this award. Infantino, FIFA's president, has cultivated a close relationship with Trump, who has campaigned for the Nobel Peace Prize but was overlooked this year. The award ceremony coincided with the World Cup group draw at Washington's Kennedy Center.
Go deeper
- Why did FIFA create the Peace Prize?
- What controversies surround Trump's award?
- How might this affect the 2026 World Cup?
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