In a move that blended global sports with geopolitics, former US President Donald Trump was honoured with a newly instituted FIFA Peace Prize on December 5, 2025. The award ceremony took place during the high-profile draw event for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, creating a moment of significant surprise and discussion.
A Surprise Honour at the World Cup Draw
The prestigious moment occurred just before the start of the World Cup draw, diverting the spotlight from football to international diplomacy. FIFA, the world's governing football body, typically focuses solely on sport, making this departure from tradition particularly notable. The organisation stated that Trump received the accolade for taking "strong and special actions for peace" across the globe. FIFA President Gianni Infantino personally presented the award, handing Trump a gold medal, a certificate, and a distinctive gold trophy engraved with his name, depicting hands holding the world.
Trump immediately placed the medal around his neck. Addressing him, Infantino declared, "This is your peace prize," and praised Trump as a leader who genuinely "cares about the people." The award aligns with Infantino's previous public statements advocating for Trump to receive a Nobel Peace Prize, specifically citing his role in facilitating Gaza ceasefire negotiations.
Context and Reactions to the FIFA Peace Prize
The creation of the FIFA Peace Prize is intended to recognise individuals who foster peace and unity worldwide. Trump, who has long expressed desire for a Nobel Peace Prize, was considered the favourite to win this inaugural award. His administration's recent diplomatic efforts formed the backdrop of the ceremony. Just a day earlier, on December 4, Infantino was in Washington at the Donald J. Trump Institute of Peace, where Trump witnessed leaders from the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda sign a deal aimed at curbing conflict in eastern Congo.
In his acceptance speech, Trump called it "truly one of the great honours of my life." He thanked his family, including his wife Melania, for their support. He also expressed gratitude to Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, highlighting the "outstanding" teamwork between the three nations co-hosting the 2026 World Cup.
A Week of Diplomacy and Controversy
The award was presented during a busy period for Trump's political team. US officials were concurrently engaged in talks seeking an end to the war in Ukraine. Simultaneously, the administration faced scrutiny over deadly strikes on suspected drug vessels in the Caribbean, and Trump himself made headlines with strengthened rhetoric on immigration policy.
In a related development, this year's Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to Venezuelan opposition figure Maria Corina Machado. In a notable gesture, she publicly dedicated a share of her honour to Donald Trump for what she termed his "decisive support of our cause." The convergence of these events underscores the complex interplay between international recognition, political legacy, and diplomatic efforts on the world stage.
