President Donald Trump has been named the first recipient of the newly established FIFA Peace Prize, an award created by world football’s governing body to honour individuals who, according to FIFA, have taken “exceptional and extraordinary actions for peace” and helped unite people across the globe.
FIFA announced the introduction of the annual prize in November but offered little detail about its selection criteria or decision-making process. The organisation had been notably silent on who would receive the inaugural award, despite speculation that it was being lined up for the US president.
Trump received the honour during the 2026 World Cup draw, where he delivered remarks describing the recognition as “one of the great honours” of his life.
“The world is a safer place now,” he said. “The USA was not doing well a year ago; now we are the hottest country in the world right now.”
In his speech, Trump claimed credit for preventing large-scale conflict in multiple regions, including the Democratic Republic of Congo, India, and Pakistan.
“We saved millions of lives — the Congo as an example. Ten million died, they were heading for 10 million very quickly. Also with India and Pakistan, we also stopped wars happening just before they started,” he said.
Trump also used the moment to commend FIFA president Gianni Infantino for what he described as record-breaking achievements in the build-up to the 2026 World Cup.
“Gianni has done an incredible job. You have set a new record on ticket sales. It is a nice tribute to you and the game of football, or as we call it, soccer. It is beyond the numbers we thought were possible,” he said.
While the announcement marks a high-profile debut for the FIFA Peace Prize, questions linger over how recipients are selected and what criteria are used to determine “extraordinary actions for peace.” FIFA has not clarified the assessment process, leaving room for debate about the transparency and motivation behind the decision.
Still, the governing body insists the award will become an annual fixture intended to spotlight individuals who have contributed significantly to global harmony — a mission that will continue to draw close scrutiny as future honourees are chosen.
Melissa Enoch
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