Trump Inaugurates New FIFA Peace Prize at World Cup Draw Event

Former U.S. President Donald Trump was honored with a new global award. He received the first-ever FIFA Peace Prize in Washington, D.C. The presentation occurred during the 2026 World Cup Draw on Friday. The event took place at the Kennedy Center.

FIFA, soccer’s world governing body, created the new accolade. It aims to recognize exceptional actions for peace. According to the Associated Press, the award was announced after Trump did not win the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize. He had openly campaigned for that honor.

Ceremony Highlights Tribute and Geopolitics

FIFA President Gianni Infantino presented the award. He praised Trump’s efforts for unity and peace. Infantino stated the leader deserved the inaugural prize. He offered continued support for global peace initiatives.

Trump accepted the honor with a personalized medal. He claimed the world was safer now. He cited interventions in conflicts like those in Congo and between India and Pakistan. The leaders of co-hosts Canada and Mexico were also present, amid ongoing trade tensions.

Draw Event Tailored for Presidential Tastes

The draw ceremony featured elements appealing to Trump. Sports legends like Wayne Gretzky and Tom Brady assisted. The Village People performed their hit “Y.M.C.A.” The song is closely associated with Trump’s political events.

Andrew Giuliani directs the White House FIFA World Cup Task Force. He reportedly called the event the “MAGA-FIFA World Cup Draw.” The draw itself set the stage for the expanded 48-team tournament. The World Cup kicks off in June 2026 across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

The creation of the FIFA Peace Prize marks a significant new chapter in sports diplomacy. Its inaugural award to Donald Trump ensures the prize will be debated globally from the start. The world cup draw event has now been permanently linked with this controversial political moment.

Thought you’d like to know

What is the FIFA Peace Prize?

The FIFA Peace Prize is a brand new award from soccer’s global governing body. It was created to recognize exceptional actions that promote peace. The first winner was announced at the 2026 World Cup draw ceremony.

Why did Donald Trump receive this award?

FIFA President Gianni Infantino stated Trump deserved it for working to end conflicts and unite people. The organization said the award was given on behalf of fans worldwide. No other nominees or a selection process were publicly detailed.

What was Trump’s reaction to winning?

Trump called it one of the great honors of his life. He claimed his actions saved millions of lives in global conflict zones. He also praised FIFA President Infantino for record World Cup ticket sales.

How does this relate to the Nobel Peace Prize?

Plans for the FIFA award were unveiled after Trump did not win the 2025 Nobel. That prize went to Venezuelan activist María Corina Machado. The White House had criticized the Nobel committee for placing “politics over peace.”

What happened at the 2026 World Cup Draw?

The draw determined the group stage for the first 48-team World Cup. It was held in Washington, D.C. and featured numerous sports celebrities. The tournament itself starts in June 2026 across North America.

Who else was involved in the event?

Canadian PM Mark Carney and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum attended as host nation leaders. Draw assistants included stars like Tom Brady and Shaquille O’Neal. The Village People provided musical entertainment.