Trump awarded the first FIFA peace prize

WASHINGTON Donald Trump has been honored with a new recognition for his efforts in promoting peace, winning the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize during the World Cup draw held in Washington. The recipient was largely anticipated since FIFA announced the award a month earlier, highlighting its purpose to "recognize individuals who have undertaken exceptional actions for peace."

The announcement followed closely after the Norwegian Nobel Committee chose not to award Trump its renowned Peace Prize in October. Trump, who had been advocating for acknowledgment of his role in resolving various conflicts, accepted the FIFA-created award, presented personally by FIFA President Gianni Infantino at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

In preparation for the 2026 World Cup, Infantino has appeared alongside Trump multiple times, including attending the presidential inauguration and visiting Washington on several occasions. The FIFA chief also joined Trump for the signing of a peace agreement between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, held on the eve of the World Cup draw.

Trump publicly praised Infantino, calling him "a great leader in sports," while sharing a front-row box during the Club World Cup final and receiving the tournaments original trophy as a personal gift. FIFA created a new trophy for the final, won by Chelsea.

Earlier in August, Trump hosted Infantino in the Oval Office to announce the Kennedy Center as the World Cup draw venue. At the event, Trump stated that Russian President Vladimir Putin, despite Russias ban from competition, could attend the 2026 World Cup, scheduled across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

The FIFA president also attended a Gaza ceasefire signing in Egypt in October, praising Trump for "breaking down barriers and building bridges" toward peace. In November, Infantino returned to the Oval Office to discuss an expedited visa process for World Cup ticket holders.

The 2026 tournament will span 16 North American cities, beginning on June 11 and concluding on July 19 in the U.S., featuring a record 48 teams. Host nation leaders traditionally participate in World Cup events, such as Putin in 2018 and Qatars emir in 2022. Infantino described his relationship with Trump as a "close friendship," praising his energy, commitment, and influence on World Cup preparations.

Trumps engagement in global soccer has extended to welcoming Cristiano Ronaldo to the White House for a dinner honoring Saudi Arabias crown prince, with Ronaldo commending Trump as "one of the guys who can help to change the world."

Author: Gavin Porter