Trump Ally Infantino Launches FIFA Peace Prize Ahead of World Cup Draw

FIFA has unveiled the FIFA Peace Prize, a new annual award that celebrates individuals or organisations who advance peace and solidarity through football.

The inaugural prize will be presented by FIFA President Gianni Infantino on December 5 at the World Cup draw in Washington D.C. — an event expected to feature global political and sporting leaders. Infantino described the initiative as part of football’s “moral duty” to unite people in an increasingly divided world.

The prize aims to highlight football’s influence beyond the pitch, recognising efforts that transcend borders and foster dialogue through sport. Its timing, however, has stirred debate given Infantino’s close ties with U.S. President Donald Trump, who has long sought a Nobel Peace Prize of his own.

Speculation remains over whether Trump could be among future recipients, especially after FIFA appointed his daughter Ivanka to a World Cup-funded education project board.

Regardless of the politics surrounding it, the Peace Prize – Football Unites the World marks FIFA’s latest effort to position the game as a global vehicle for harmony.