Organisers gave the 2026 World Cup draw a political edge by honouring Donald Trump with FIFA’s new peace prize. Trump openly sought international recognition and openly promoted his desire for the Nobel Peace Prize. Many observers viewed him as the leading contender for this new FIFA honour.
Trump and Gianni Infantino maintain a close relationship, and Infantino repeatedly argued that Trump deserved the Nobel for his attempts to broker a Gaza ceasefire. Infantino presented the trophy and stated, “This is your prize, this is your peace prize.” He often describes football as a global unifier, yet this award marks a shift from FIFA’s traditional sporting focus. Trump told reporters at the Kennedy Centre that he had no certainty about receiving the award and said he cared more about saving lives than prizes.
FIFA Clarifies the Prize’s Purpose
FIFA states that the award recognises individuals who take extraordinary actions for peace and unite people worldwide. The announcement arrived during a week when the Trump administration faced scrutiny for deadly strikes on alleged drug boats in the Caribbean. Trump also intensified his stance against immigrants during this period.
Reactions Highlight Wider Context
The Nobel Peace Prize went instead to Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado. She dedicated part of her award to Trump and praised what she called his decisive support for her cause.
