US President Donald Trump received the newly created FIFA Peace Prize on Friday. The honour came during the 2026 World Cup draw. As a result, the sports event instantly gained global political attention.
Moreover, Trump has openly shown interest in winning the Nobel Peace Prize. Because of this, many people expected FIFA to choose him for its new award. At the same time, FIFA President Gianni Infantino supported his selection. He said Trump deserved recognition for helping global peace efforts, including work linked to Gaza.
Infantino Praises Trump’s Actions
During the ceremony, Infantino personally handed Trump a medal. He called it a “beautiful medal” and encouraged him to wear it with pride. Trump then placed the medal around his neck.
In addition, Infantino presented him with a gold trophy. The trophy carried Trump’s name and showed hands lifting the world. Meanwhile, a video played in the background. It showed Trump meeting global leaders. Infantino said, “You definitely deserve the first FIFA Peace Prize for your action, for what you have obtained in your way.”
The certificate also praised Trump. It recognised his efforts to “promote peace and unity around the world.”
Trump Thanks Family and Partner Nations
In his speech, Trump thanked his family. He mentioned First Lady Melania Trump. He also praised Canada and Mexico. He thanked Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum.
He called the cooperation between the three nations “outstanding.” Then, he said, “This is truly one of the great honors of my life.” He added, “The world is a safer place now.”
FIFA Steps Away From Tradition
Normally, FIFA sticks to football and tournaments. However, this prize marked a change. Over the past year, Infantino frequently visited the Oval Office.
In November, he attended meetings on faster visa processing for World Cup travelers. He also attended Trump’s January inauguration. In addition, FIFA opened an office inside Trump Tower in Manhattan. This move highlighted a strong link between FIFA and the US president.
So far, FIFA has not explained how it selected the Peace Prize winner. In fact, some senior officials said they learned about the award through the media.
Peace Efforts Continue Amid Criticism
At the same time, the Trump administration continued peace talks on Ukraine. However, it also faced criticism. Reports linked the administration to deadly strikes on suspected smuggling boats in the Caribbean. Critics also questioned Trump’s strict immigration policies.
One day before the award, Infantino attended the opening of the Donald J. Trump Institute of Peace. There, Trump signed an agreement. He did so with leaders from Congo and Rwanda. The agreement aimed to stop violence in eastern Congo.
Nobel Prize Goes to Venezuelan Leader
While Trump received FIFA’s honour, the Nobel Peace Prize went to Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado. After the announcement, she thanked Trump. She said she dedicated the award in part to him for “his decisive support of our cause.”
Machado will receive the Nobel Peace Prize on December 10 in Oslo, Norway.