WASHINGTON — In an unprecedented moment at the FIFA World Cup 2026 draw ceremony, President Donald Trump was presented with the first-ever FIFA Peace Prize, recognizing what the federation described as his “extraordinary” contributions to global peace, stability and conflict resolution.
The honor was announced by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who credited Trump’s “notable leadership and action” in de-escalating armed conflicts across the world.
Speaking on stage at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Infantino said the award celebrates “an individual who exemplifies an unwavering commitment to advancing peace and unity throughout the world.”
Infantino Praises Trump’s Record on Conflict Resolution
In remarks delivered before a global audience, Infantino praised Trump’s unconventional diplomacy, saying he had “obtained results in a way that was incredible,” and that FIFA sought to highlight the role of individuals who use their influence to reduce conflict and foster international cooperation.
“Football unites the world,” Infantino said. “And today, we award the 2025 FIFA Peace Prize to Donald J. Trump, President of the United States of America, in recognition of his exceptional and extraordinary actions to promote peace and unity around the world.”
The ceremony marked the first time FIFA has issued a peace award, signaling a new initiative by the organization to link sports diplomacy with global leadership.
Trump Calls It “One of the Great Honors” of His Life
Trump, visibly pleased, called the moment “one of the great honors of my life,” telling the audience that his administration had worked aggressively to prevent war and negotiate settlements in some of the world’s most volatile regions.
“So many different wars that we’re able to end, in some cases, a little bit before they started,” Trump said. “Just right before they started.”
The award also comes at a time when Trump continues to publicly press for a Nobel Peace Prize, arguing that his record qualifies him for the honor long denied to him by the committee.
A Controversial Diplomatic Legacy
The White House has routinely highlighted Trump’s diplomatic initiatives in the Middle East, Africa and Asia, pointing to high-profile ceasefires and conflict-ending agreements that his administration claims credit for over the past year.
Among the achievements cited by FIFA were:
- A ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza
- An agreement to halt hostilities between India and Pakistan
- A border de-escalation deal between Thailand and Cambodia
- Diplomatic breakthroughs between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo
- Mediation between Armenia and Azerbaijan
Trump has also claimed credit for preventing wider escalation after a 12-day war between Israel and Iran, saying his strikes “decimated” Iran’s nuclear capabilities. Independent analysts have questioned the long-term effects of the conflict, but the administration has described it as a decisive success.
Sports and Politics Collide on the World Cup Stage
The timing of the award, delivered during the FIFA World Cup final draw for 2026, underscored the global visibility of Trump’s foreign policy ahead of a year that will place the United States at the center of international sports.
Infantino has previously used football events to promote global unity, but Friday’s ceremony showcased a more overtly political dimension, linking the World Cup to international diplomacy.
Trump also highlighted recent U.S. mediation efforts in Serbia and Kosovo, and in the long-standing dispute between Egypt and Ethiopia over water rights, both of which remain fragile.
