Trump Receives First FIFA Peace Prize

US President Donald Trump has been awarded the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize during the 2026 World Cup draw in Washington. The honour was presented at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, marking a rare intersection of global sports diplomacy and international political recognition.

FIFA Introduces New Global Peace Award

FIFA unveiled the Peace Prize in November as a distinction for individuals whose actions have significantly advanced peace and unity worldwide. The governing body has yet to reveal its selection criteria, but it emphasises exceptional contribution and global impact as the core principles of the award.

Trump Honoured for ‘Extraordinary Actions’

FIFA President Gianni Infantino presented the medal to Trump, praising his efforts to promote peace across regions experiencing prolonged tensions. Leaders from Canada and Mexico attended the ceremony, underscoring the trilateral hosting arrangement for the 2026 World Cup.

President’s Remarks at the Ceremony

In his acceptance speech, Trump described the award as one of the greatest honours of his life. He asserted that his focus was not on accolades but on saving lives, claiming that his diplomatic interventions had prevented large-scale conflicts. He cited examples of crisis situations involving the Democratic Republic of the Congo and India–Pakistan.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Donald Trump is the first recipient of the newly created FIFA Peace Prize.
• The award was presented during the 2026 World Cup draw in Washington.
• FIFA launched the Peace Prize in November to recognise extraordinary contributions to global peace.
• The 2026 World Cup will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico from 11 June.

Significance for Sports and Diplomacy

The introduction of the FIFA Peace Prize signals FIFA’s intention to broaden its influence beyond sport by promoting conflict resolution and international unity. The high-profile ceremony reflects growing engagement between political leadership and global sporting institutions ahead of the 2026 tournament.