YMCA and a 'peace prize.' FIFA aims for a goal in Trump courtship

World soccer is rolling out the red carpet for President Donald Trump, featuring one of his favorite musical acts and a glittering celebrity-filled event, capped by an award designed to appeal to Trumps self-styled image as a peacemaker. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup set to debut in North America, FIFA has been strategically engaging with Trump, culminating in the December 5 ceremony at Washington, D.C.s Kennedy Center for the World Cup Draw.

Trump attended the event, where he was expected to receive a FIFA Peace Prize, a symbolic nod after he was not awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in October. FIFA President Gianni Infantino has become a close ally of Trump, joining him at a December 4 ceremony celebrating a peace deal between African nations and visiting the White House the previous month for expedited World Cup ticket visa announcements.

The draw, splitting 48 nations into 12 groups of four, was a spectacle clearly tailored to Trumps tastes. Musical performances included the Village People, known for their hit Y.M.C.A, a song closely associated with Trump rallies, and Andrea Bocelli, another of the presidents favorites. High-profile hosts Kevin Hart and Heidi Klum guided the event, while sports legends such as Tom Brady, Shaquille ONeal, Wayne Gretzky, Eli Manning, and Aaron Judge joined the red carpet festivities. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney also attended.

Trump praised Infantino as a great leader in sports and a great gentleman, highlighting their growing bond, which began during Infantinos early White House visits. Infantino recalled how Trump mentioned his son Barrons passion for soccer during one meeting, reflecting the presidents tendency to embrace what his children love. To further solidify the connection, Infantino opened a FIFA office inside Trump Tower, emphasizing the importance of governmental support for such a large-scale event.

While FIFA and Trump emphasize that international fans will be welcomed in the U.S., concerns remain over how travel and immigration policies could affect the World Cup. Over 80 civil rights and labor organizations sent a letter to FIFA urging the protection of visitors and residents rights amid stricter policies and heightened security measures. Despite these concerns, organizers are optimistic about ticket sales and global engagement.

The tournament will kick off in June 2026 and conclude with the finals at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, on July 19. Fans worldwide are tuning in to witness the draw, anticipating both the matchups and the unique spectacle of the event, blending sports, politics, and celebrity in a way tailored to capture Trumps attention.

Author: Gavin Porter