FIFA’s newly created Peace Prize—launched in November 2025 to honor individuals who promote global unity—was awarded to Donald Trump during the 2026 World Cup draw on December 5, 2025. The decision is drawing significant criticism. Human Rights Watch and other observers argue the award lacks credibility, citing Trump’s disputed claims of mediating international conflicts, including an unverified India-Pakistan ceasefire. Critics also highlight the absence of any disclosed selection criteria or independent oversight, raising concerns that FIFA’s close relationship with the U.S. government may have influenced the outcome. With FIFA’s own data estimating more than 5 billion global football fans, the prize carries enormous visibility, but no scholarly research exists on its long-term political impact, leaving questions about its legitimacy unresolved.
"This is truly one of the great honors of my life. Beyond awards... we saved millions and millions of lives."