FIFA has instituted its first-ever “FIFA Peace Award” and named United States President Donald Trump as its inaugural recipient, sparking widespread controversy across the political and sporting world. The announcement was made during the draw ceremony for the 2026 FIFA World Cup at the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C., where Trump also unveiled the World Cup trophy. Speaking at the event, FIFA President Gianni Infantino described the new award as a tribute to individuals who contribute to global unity through football and peace initiatives, adding that Trump’s selection represented the acknowledgment of FIFA’s 500 million supporters worldwide.
Trump was presented with the golden medallion and thus became the first-ever FIFA Peace Award laureate. In his acceptance speech, he termed the honor “one of the greatest of my life” and asserted that his diplomatic efforts had saved “millions of lives.” He claimed credit for brokering a peace agreement in Congo and preventing “ten million deaths,” as well as for averting a potential war between India and Pakistan and stopping multiple global conflicts. Trump was widely expected to pursue the Nobel Peace Prize this year; however, the honor instead went to Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado — a decision that reportedly left him disappointed.
FIFA’s move has drawn sharp criticism. Human Rights Watch condemned the organization for a lack of transparency in determining nominees and jury members, questioning the legitimacy of the selection process. The decision has also become a contentious talking point within the FIFA Council itself, fueling intense debate.
Preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup are meanwhile progressing. The tournament, co-hosted by Mexico, Canada, and the United States, will begin on June 11, 2026, with the opening match between Mexico and South Africa. The final is scheduled for July 19 in New Jersey. The expanded format will feature 48 teams in the group stage across 12 groups of four, with 42 teams already qualified and 22 more vying for the remaining six slots.