Donald Trump actively campaigned for the Nobel Peace Prize and long sought international recognition. Experts expected him to win FIFA’s newly established peace award. FIFA presented Trump with the prize during the 2026 World Cup draw on Friday, adding a distinct Trump presence to the event. Spectators noted the ceremony highlighted his influence and global profile.
Strong Connections Influence Recognition
Trump maintains a close alliance with FIFA president Gianni Infantino, who publicly praised Trump’s Gaza ceasefire efforts. Infantino declared, “This is your prize, this is your peace prize.” He often described football as a global unifier, yet the award deviated from FIFA’s usual sporting focus. Trump told reporters at Washington’s Kennedy Centre that he did not know he would receive the award and emphasized, “I don’t need prizes. I just want to save lives.”
Controversy and Global Reactions
FIFA defined the prize to honor “individuals who have taken exceptional actions for peace and united people worldwide.” The award coincided with scrutiny of Trump’s administration over deadly strikes on alleged drug boats in the Caribbean and his intensified anti-immigrant rhetoric. The Nobel Peace Prize went to Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, who dedicated part of her recognition to Trump, citing his “decisive support of our cause.”
