FIFA has announced a new annual peace prize to recognize exceptional actions for peace, with the first award set for the 2026 World Cup draw on December 5 in Washington. President Gianni Infantino hinted at a potential recipient during remarks praising his close relationship with Donald Trump, amid speculation that the U.S. president could receive it. The announcement comes after Trump was overlooked for the Nobel Peace Prize.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino revealed the creation of the FIFA Peace Prize on Wednesday, stating it will honor "individuals who, through their unwavering commitment and their special actions, have helped to unite people all over the world in peace." The prize, to be awarded annually on behalf of global fans, will debut at the 2026 World Cup group-stage draw on December 5 at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. Infantino, speaking at the America Business Forum in Miami shortly after Trump's address there, declined to name the first recipient but said, "On the 5th of December, you will see."
Infantino highlighted his personal ties to Trump, calling him "a really close friend" who has been "very, very helpful in everything we do for the World Cup." He praised Trump's energy and directness: "He does things. He does what he says. He says what he thinks." The FIFA leader also defended Trump's election, noting, "President Trump was elected in the United States of America and was quite clearly elected... So I think we should all support what he’s doing because I think it’s looking pretty good."
These comments have drawn criticism for potentially violating FIFA's code of ethics on political neutrality. Miguel Maduro, former chairman of FIFA’s governance committee, told The Athletic that Infantino's remarks "endorses [Trump's] political programme and actions and argues others should support them too," describing it as a "clear violation of the duty of political neutrality imposed on any FIFA official by Article 15 of its Code of Ethics." An investigation by FIFA’s Ethics Committee could result in sanctions, including fines or bans.
The event is expected to attract about 1 billion viewers worldwide. FIFA has deepened U.S. ties, including appointing Ivanka Trump to the board of a $100 million education project funded partly by 2026 World Cup ticket sales. Trump, who has lobbied for the Nobel Peace Prize without success, serves as chairman of the Kennedy Center since February.
