FIFA Issue Statement on Stripping Donald Trump of Peace Award After Threats
FIFA’s choice to grant Donald Trump the first-ever FIFA Peace Prize has created significant controversy. The award was presented ahead of the 2026 World Cup draw in December 2025.
The newly created prize, introduced by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, aims to honor “exceptional actions for peace and unity.” The ceremony occurred on December 5, 2025, in Washington, D.C.
This decision has drawn widespread attention because it shifts focus from sport to political leadership. Awarding a sitting political figure during a major football event has sparked considerable debate.
Critics, including human rights groups and football commentators, have questioned the award’s transparency. They note a lack of publicly disclosed criteria or a formal nomination process.
Further criticism argues the choice risks politicizing sport and undermines FIFA’s claimed neutrality. This has led to ethics complaints and concerns over the organization’s governance.
FIFA has defended the award, highlighting sport’s symbolic role as a unifying force. It has resisted calls to revoke the prize despite reported internal and public embarrassment.
Ultimately, the controversy illustrates the difficulty for global sports bodies when their symbolic gestures intersect with divisive political discussions, especially before a major event like the World Cup.
