FIFA created and gave Donald Trump a new “FIFA Peace Prize – Football Unites the World” mainly to recognize what its president Gianni Infantino described as Trump’s efforts to “promote peace and unity around the world,” especially in conflicts like Gaza, Ukraine, and Congo.
FIFA’s stated reasons
- The prize was announced as an award for individuals who have taken “exceptional and extraordinary actions for peace” and for uniting people globally.
- In presenting the award at the 2026 World Cup draw in Washington, Infantino pointed to Trump’s role in cease-fire talks in Gaza and diplomatic initiatives tied to conflicts such as eastern Congo and Ukraine.
- The certificate given to Trump explicitly cites his efforts to foster or promote peace and unity around the globe.
Political and personal factors
- Reporting indicates that Infantino has a notably close relationship with Trump, including frequent meetings, public praise, and even FIFA leasing office space in Trump Tower, which many observers see as part of Infantino’s effort to ingratiate himself with the U.S. president.
- Analysts and critics note that Trump had long campaigned for a Nobel Peace Prize, and the timing and design of FIFA’s award are widely viewed as giving him a substitute “peace prize” from a friendly organization.
Criticism and controversy
- Human rights organizations and many commentators argue that the prize lacks transparency, pointing out that FIFA did not clearly disclose any nomination process, criteria, or independent judging panel.
- Critics also say honoring Trump for “peace” clashes with his inflammatory rhetoric on issues like immigration and ongoing civilian harm linked to his security policies, accusing FIFA of using a peace label for what they see as a politically motivated gesture.
In short, FIFA’s official explanation is that Trump’s diplomatic initiatives and “unity” efforts merited a peace award, while many outside observers see it more as a personal, political move by Infantino than a neutral recognition of genuine peacebuilding.
