Friday December 5, 2025
www.thenewsdesk.ng
In a move that has stirred global attention, FIFA on Friday honoured United States President Donald Trump with its inaugural FIFA Peace Prize, recognising what the organisation described as his “exceptional and extraordinary” contributions to promoting peace and unity worldwide.
The award was presented by FIFA President Gianni Infantino during the draw ceremony for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, held at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.
The moment marked a symbolic triumph for Trump, who has repeatedly voiced frustration over being overlooked by the Nobel Committee.
“This is truly one of the great honours of my life,” Trump said as he received the prize, adding that he and Infantino “saved millions and millions of lives,” though he did not elaborate on specific actions.
FIFA announced the introduction of the annual peace prize last month, explaining that it is intended to celebrate figures who bring hope to future generations.
With Infantino’s close ties to Trump well-documented — the FIFA president has visited the White House more than any other world leader since Trump returned to office — the selection came as little surprise.
The U.S. president has been vocal about what he views as his peace achievements, citing involvement in resolving or easing several conflicts this year, including efforts toward a ceasefire in Gaza.
Despite this, he was passed over for the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize, which went instead to Venezuelan opposition figure Maria Corina Machado.
Trump has positioned himself as a central figure in Middle East peace initiatives, leading what he calls a “board of peace” for Gaza.
Infantino was present at the signing of a peace arrangement in Egypt earlier this year, further cementing the pair’s collaborative relationship.
Beyond politics, Trump has also placed significant focus on the 2026 World Cup — co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico — framing the tournament as a key priority of his second term.
The event in Washington not only set the stage for next summer’s global football spectacle but also delivered the former president a long-sought international accolade, albeit from a sporting institution rather than the Nobel Committee.
