A Controversial Honor
During the World Cup draw in Washington, D.C., FIFA president Gianni Infantino stepped onto the stage to present the newly created FIFA Peace Prize to former U.S. president Donald Trump. The ceremony, held in December 2025, marked the first time the distinction was awarded, a distinction that emerged after Trump was not selected for the Nobel Peace Prize.
Infantino described the honor as a recognition of Trump’s efforts to promote peace through sport, emphasizing that the football community would continue to back initiatives that foster dialogue and understanding. He highlighted the former president’s role in brokering high‑profile matches and charitable projects that, in his view, aligned with FIFA’s mission.
The presentation was not without dissent. An international human‑rights organization called FairSquare filed a formal complaint against Infantino, alleging that the award violated FIFA’s duty of political neutrality. The group argued that honoring a sitting head of state with such a distinction could be perceived as endorsing a particular political agenda.
Critics around the world condemned the decision, labeling it a politicization of a sport‑governing body that has traditionally sought to remain apolitical. Observers noted that the backlash extended beyond the United States, with commentators in Europe and Asia expressing concern that the move could undermine the organization’s credibility.
Despite the controversy, Infantino defended the award as a symbolic gesture intended to encourage peace‑building efforts across borders. He maintained that the recognition was based on specific actions rather than broader political affiliations, and he called for a constructive dialogue on how sports can contribute to global harmony.