FIFA has introduced the FIFA Peace Prize to recognize exceptional actions for peace, with the first award set for December 5 at the 2026 World Cup draw in Washington. President Gianni Infantino hinted at the recipient during a Miami event, fueling speculation about U.S. President Donald Trump. The annual prize aims to honor those uniting people amid global divisions.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino announced the creation of the FIFA Peace Prize on November 6, 2025, during the America Business Forum in Miami. The award, described as recognizing 'exceptional and extraordinary actions for peace' that unite people worldwide, will be presented annually, starting with its inaugural edition on December 5, 2025, at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC, coinciding with the draw for the 2026 World Cup hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Infantino emphasized the prize's purpose in a statement: 'In an increasingly unsettled and divided world, it's fundamental to recognize the outstanding contribution of those who work hard to end conflicts and bring people together in a spirit of peace.' He noted football's role in promoting unity and that the draw ceremony, expected to attract about 1 billion viewers, provides a global platform for the award.
Speculation has centered on U.S. President Donald Trump as the potential first recipient, given Infantino's praise for him at the Miami event. Infantino called Trump a 'close friend' who has been 'very helpful' with World Cup preparations and possesses 'incredible energy.' When asked if Trump would receive the prize, Infantino replied, 'On the 5th of December, you will see.' This follows Trump's unsuccessful bid for the Nobel Peace Prize, awarded to Venezuelan activist María Corina Machado last month, and Infantino's prior Instagram post claiming Trump 'definitely deserves' it for efforts toward a Gaza peace deal.
The announcement has drawn criticism. Former FIFA governance committee chairman Miguel Maduro accused Infantino of violating FIFA's statutes on political neutrality by endorsing Trump's agenda, stating the comments went beyond recognizing election results to supporting his policies. FIFA declined to comment on the accusation. The prize marks a new tradition for the World Cup draw, typically focused solely on soccer logistics for the 104-game tournament from June 11 to July 19, 2026.
