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FIFA Peace Prize Announcement Fuels Trump Speculation/ TezzBuzz/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ FIFA unveiled a new annual Peace Prize to honor individuals promoting global unity. Speculation surrounds whether Donald Trump will be its first recipient, given his ties to FIFA President Gianni Infantino. The award will debut during the December 5 World Cup draw in Washington.

FIFA Peace Prize Launch Quick Looks

• FIFA introduces a new Peace Prize for global unity
• First award to be presented at World Cup draw on December 5
• Infantino hints at surprise recipient, fueling Trump rumors
• Infantino praises Trump as a “close friend” and energetic leader
• Trump previously missed out on the Nobel Peace Prize
• Ivanka Trump appointed to FIFA- education project board
• FIFA says the award represents fans “around the world”
• Over 1 billion expected to watch the live award presentation

Deep Look: FIFA’s New Peace Prize Sparks Trump Speculation Ahead of World Cup Draw

MIAMI — FIFA has unveiled a new global honor — the FIFA Peace Prize — set to debut next month during the draw for the 2026 World Cup. Designed to celebrate efforts that foster peace and unity, the award is already stirring debate and speculation due to its high-profile launch and possible political implications.

Speaking Wednesday at the America Business Forum in Miami, FIFA President Gianni Infantino remained tight-lipped about the recipient of the inaugural prize, saying only:

FIFA described the Peace Prize as an annual recognition of “exceptional actions for peace” and confirmed that Infantino himself will present the award. The organization emphasized its intent to honor figures who bridge divides and promote global harmony, saying the prize will be awarded “on behalf of fans from all around the world.”

While FIFA did not confirm any nominee, Infantino’s public admiration for President Donald Trump — who spoke at the same business forum just before Infantino — has fueled speculation that Trump could be the first recipient. The former president was passed over for the Nobel Peace Prize earlier this year, despite endorsements from allies and his own efforts to lobby for the honor.

Infantino has not hidden his personal and professional rapport with Trump. On stage in Miami, he described Trump as “a close friend” and praised his impact on the upcoming 2026 World Cup, which the U.S. will co-host with Canada and Mexico.

Adding another layer to the connection, FIFA recently appointed Ivanka Trump, the president’s daughter, to the board of a $100 million education initiative partially funded by ticket sales from the 2026 World Cup. The project aims to support global youth through educational programs tied to the tournament’s legacy.

Though Trump’s possible receipt of the FIFA Peace Prize remains unconfirmed, Infantino’s public statements — paired with recent organizational decisions — have only intensified speculation. Critics and supporters alike are closely watching how FIFA handles its first awarding of what could become a prestigious global honor.

For FIFA, the new Peace Prize also represents an attempt to reinforce its global image amid previous controversies and to align the organization with humanitarian and social goals beyond the realm of sport. The award is likely intended to mirror other international recognitions like the Nobel Peace Prizethough FIFA’s prize will carry a unique cultural and sports diplomacy influence.

By choosing to reveal the first recipient during the high-profile World Cup draw, FIFA ensures maximum visibility for the new initiative. With over a billion people expected to tune in globally, the ceremony has the potential to significantly shape public perception of both FIFA’s mission and the individual honored.

As the December 5 date approachesglobal attention will not only be on the groupings for the 2026 tournament but also on whether FIFA uses its newest award to make a political statement — or to simply celebrate a symbol of peace.

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