In a historic yet contentious move, former U.S. President Donald Trump became the inaugural recipient of FIFA’s newly established peace prize during the 2026 World Cup draw ceremony in Washington. The award was presented by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, a noted ally of Trump, at the Kennedy Center on Friday.
Infantino justified the selection by citing Trump’s ‘exceptional and extraordinary’ efforts in promoting global peace and unity. The former president received a golden trophy and a commemorative medal, which he promptly wore around his neck during the ceremony. ‘This is truly one of the great honors of my life,’ Trump declared. ‘We saved millions and millions of lives. The world is a safer place now.’
The timing and recipient choice raised immediate questions about FIFA’s political neutrality. The organization announced the annual prize in November, describing it as an recognition for individuals who provide ‘hope for future generations.’ However, the selection process lacked transparency, with Human Rights Watch reporting unsuccessful attempts to obtain information about nominees, judges, or criteria.
The award comes amid criticism of Trump’s policies from Democrats and human rights organizations. Critics point to his administration’s military buildup around Venezuela, aggressive migration crackdowns, and suppression of political opponents. The ceremony venue itself became symbolic—the Kennedy Center, where Trump recently installed himself as chairman in his proclaimed war on ‘woke’ culture.
Minky Worden of Human Rights Watch commented: ‘FIFA’s so-called peace prize is being awarded against a backdrop of violent detentions of immigrants, national guard deployments in US cities, and the obsequious cancellation of FIFA’s own anti-racism campaigns.’
The presentation also served as compensation for Trump’s repeated Nobel Peace Prize aspirations. Despite claiming credit for resolving multiple conflicts, including a fragile Gaza ceasefire, the Norwegian Nobel Committee recently awarded its peace prize to Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado.