MIAMI, United States — FIFA, world soccer’s governing body, announced on Wednesday the creation of a new annual honor, the FIFA Peace Prize. The inaugural award is scheduled to be presented during the 2026 World Cup draw in Washington D.C.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirmed the new accolade in a statement, emphasizing the sport’s role in global harmony.
“Football stands for peace, and on behalf of the entire global football community, the FIFA Peace Prize — Football Unites the World will recognize the enormous efforts of those individuals who unite people, bringing hope for future generations,” Infantino said in a statement.
The announcement coincided with Infantino’s appearance at the America Business Forum in Miami, an event also featuring speakers such as US President Donald Trump and Argentine World Cup champion Lionel Messi.
Speculation surrounding the inaugural winner
While the recipient of the first award was not immediately revealed, speculation immediately arose that the prize could be awarded to President Trump, a known ally of Infantino.
Trump is expected to be present at the draw, which is scheduled for December 5 at the Kennedy Center in the US capital.
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Trump, flanked by Infantino, had previously announced the location of the draw from the Oval Office in August. The President recently installed himself as chairman of the Kennedy Center this year, framing the move as a stand against “woke” culture.
The speculation follows Trump’s repeated assertions since returning to office for a second term in January that he deserves the Nobel Peace Prize for his perceived role in resolving global conflicts.
However, the US President was overlooked last month when the Norwegian Nobel Committee awarded its peace prize to Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado.
The 2026 World Cup is set to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with the tournament running from June 11 to July 19.
