Human Rights Watch has sent a letter to FIFA seeking details on its newly announced Peace Prize, with no response received as of late November. The award, titled 'FIFA Peace Prize — Football Unites the World,' is set to debut at the 2026 World Cup draw in Washington D.C. on December 5. The initiative has drawn scrutiny due to its surprise announcement and perceived ties to U.S. President Donald Trump.
FIFA announced the 'FIFA Peace Prize — Football Unites the World' on November 5, stating it would recognize individuals who have helped unite people in peace. The award will be presented annually, with the inaugural ceremony occurring during the 2026 World Cup draw at the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C. on December 5, led by FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
Infantino emphasized the prize's purpose in a statement: “In an increasingly unsettled and divided world, it’s fundamental to recognise the outstanding contribution of those who work hard to end conflicts and bring people together in a spirit of peace. Football stands for peace, and on behalf of the entire global football community, the FIFA Peace Prize — Football Unites the World will recognise the enormous efforts of those individuals who unite people, bringing hope for future generations.”
The announcement surprised many within FIFA, including the FIFA Council and vice-presidents, who were not consulted on its creation or selection criteria, according to multiple sources. It coincided with Infantino's speech at the America Business Forum in Miami, where Trump also spoke. Infantino has publicly supported Trump's Nobel Peace Prize candidacy, posting on Instagram on October 9 that Trump “definitely deserves the Nobel Peace Prize for his decisive actions” in the Israel-Gaza ceasefire. When asked about Trump's potential for the FIFA prize, Infantino replied, “You will see.”
Trump, who did not receive the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize—awarded to Venezuelan activist María Corina Machado—has been nominated by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and has claimed he deserves it multiple times. Reports suggest the FIFA award may be 'Trump-tailored,' and Trump is expected to attend the World Cup draw.
On November 11, Human Rights Watch wrote to Infantino, requesting clarification on nomination processes, criteria, judges, and human rights considerations, with a response deadline of November 20. No reply has been received. The organization, which investigates global abuses, seeks transparency ahead of the ceremony.
