FIFA reviews future of peace prize after awarding inaugural honour to Trump

12:30

By: Azzat Manal

FIFA reviews future of peace prize after awarding inaugural honour to Trump

FIFA is reconsidering whether to continue awarding its newly established Peace Prize after presenting the inaugural honour to US President Donald Trump in December 2025. The review follows criticism over the decision and renewed questions about the transparency of the selection process and the relationship between football governance and political affairs.

The international football governing body introduced the award in November 2025, describing it as a way to recognise efforts that promote peace and highlight football’s potential to bring people together during periods of global instability. FIFA president Gianni Infantino presented the first prize to Trump during the official draw for the 2026 World Cup in Washington, D.C.

The choice of recipient sparked debate among human rights organisations and sections of the football community. Critics questioned how the winner had been selected and argued that the decision risked giving the award a political dimension. The controversy has placed greater attention on the criteria FIFA uses to recognise contributions to peace and on whether the process provides sufficient independence and accountability.

FIFA’s review could determine whether the prize becomes a recurring feature of its activities or whether changes are needed to its purpose and selection procedures. Any future edition would likely face scrutiny over the standards used to assess candidates and the organisation’s ability to demonstrate that the award remains consistent with its stated humanitarian objectives.

The dispute comes as Infantino faces a separate political challenge ahead of FIFA’s next presidential election. Reports have indicated that discussions are taking place in Europe about a possible challenger, with a potential candidacy expected to emerge before the November 18 deadline. Such a move could introduce further uncertainty into the campaign, although the details and prospects of any rival remain unclear.

UEFA, the Asian Football Confederation and CONCACAF have been identified among the organisations opposing Infantino’s re-election. Their reported position reflects wider tensions within international football over leadership, decision-making and the direction of the governing body. The extent to which these disagreements will affect the election remains to be seen.

FIFA’s handling of the Peace Prize may therefore have implications beyond the award itself. As the organisation prepares for the 2026 World Cup and a new presidential election, questions surrounding transparency, political neutrality and institutional credibility are likely to remain central to discussions about its leadership and public role.