Trump celebrates winning FIFA's new peace prize with a big smile

U.S. President Donald Trump became the first recipient of FIFAs newly created peace award during the 2026 World Cup draw held at the Kennedy Center in Washington. FIFA chief Gianni Infantino presented the honor, describing Trumps actions as instrumental in promoting global stability.

This is a tremendous honor. We have helped save countless lives, Trump said after accepting the award.

Infantino emphasized that the annual prize was established to recognize figures who contribute to international unity and optimism for future generations.

Trump has built a strong rapport with Infantino, who has visited the White House more frequently than any other international official since Trump returned to office. The president repeatedly argues that he merits global recognition for mediating conflicts, including a delicate truce in Gaza.

Despite missing out on the Nobel Peace Prize, Trump recently positioned himself at the forefront of a peace initiative for Gaza, with Infantino present at the signing ceremony in Egypt. A Washington peace institute was also renamed in Trumps honor earlier this week.

The president has championed the World Cup as a defining element of his second term, while FIFAs presentation of the award raised questions due to the organizations claim of political neutrality. Calls for transparency over the selection process have gone unanswered.

Trump continues to face criticism from lawmakers and rights advocates over military escalations near Venezuela, stringent migration policy, and actions targeting asylum procedures in several participating nations. He has also intensified measures against political rivals and voices disputing his narrative of the 2020 election.

The Kennedy Center, chosen for the draw, is the same venue where Trump took on a leadership role in his declared effort to challenge what he labels as woke cultural influence.

Author: Riley Thompson