U.S. President Donald Trump became the inaugural recipient of FIFA’s newly created peace prize on Friday during the 2026 World Cup draw held at the Kennedy Center in Washington.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino, a long-time ally of Trump, presented the award to the 79-year-old leader, describing him as a figure whose efforts to promote global peace and unity were “exceptional and extraordinary.”
“Thank you very much. This is truly one of the great honors of my life,” Trump said after receiving the prize. “And beyond awards… we saved millions and millions of lives.”
FIFA unveiled the annual peace award in November, saying it was designed to honor individuals who bring “hope for future generations.” Trump’s selection, however, came as no surprise given his close relationship with Infantino, who has visited the White House more than any other world leader since Trump’s return to office in January.
The U.S. president has repeatedly asserted that he deserves a Nobel Peace Prize, claiming credit for ending several global conflicts this year, including brokering a fragile ceasefire in Gaza. The Nobel Committee instead awarded its 2025 Peace Prize to Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado.
Trump has positioned himself at the forefront of peace efforts in Gaza, with Infantino attending the signing of a related agreement in Egypt. His administration also renamed a Washington peace institute after him this week.
Despite FIFA’s insistence on political neutrality, the award marked a highly unusual step for the world football body. Rights groups have raised concerns about the transparency of the prize, with Human Rights Watch saying it has received no response to its request for details on nominees, judges, and criteria.
The recognition comes as Trump faces criticism from Democrats and human rights organizations over issues including military actions in Venezuela, harsh immigration measures affecting several World Cup participant nations, and ongoing crackdowns on political opponents.
The ceremony took place at the Kennedy Center, where Trump recently installed himself as chairman in what he described as part of his broader campaign against “woke” culture.
