United States President Donald Trump on Friday became the first person to receive FIFA’s new peace prize during the draw for the 2026 World Cup held at the Kennedy Center in Washington.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino presented the award to Trump, calling his actions “exceptional and extraordinary” in promoting peace and unity.
Trump, 79, accepted the honour with praise for his relationship with Infantino. He said, “Thank you very much. This is truly one of the great honors of my life. And beyond awards, Gianni and I were discussing this, we saved millions and millions of lives.”
FIFA introduced the annual peace prize in November to recognise individuals who bring hope to future generations. Trump’s selection came as little surprise due to his close ties with Infantino, who has visited the White House more than any other world leader since Trump returned to office in January.
The US president has often argued that he deserves a Nobel Peace Prize for his claimed role in ending several conflicts this year, including securing a fragile Gaza ceasefire. However, the Norwegian Nobel Committee gave the award to Venezuelan opposition figure Maria Corina Machado last month.
Trump has also positioned himself as head of a “board of peace” for Gaza. Infantino was present at the signing of that agreement in Egypt. Earlier this week, a Washington peace institute was renamed in Trump’s honour.
The prize has drawn attention because FIFA normally presents itself as politically neutral. Human Rights Watch said it wrote to FIFA asking for the list of nominees, judges, criteria and the selection process but had not received a reply.
Trump continues to face criticism from Democrats and rights groups over several issues, including military actions abroad, a strict migration crackdown, and pressure on political rivals. He has also threatened to move World Cup matches from cities where he deployed troops.
The draw took place at the Kennedy Center, where Trump earlier installed himself as chairman in his push against what he described as woke culture.
