President Donald Trump was honored with the first-ever FIFA Peace Prize on Friday during the 2026 FIFA World Cup draw ceremony at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.
The award recognized his role in promoting global diplomacy and conflict prevention, providing a high-profile acknowledgment from soccer’s governing body.
FIFA described the prize as honoring “exceptional actions for peace,” a move designed to highlight global leaders whose initiatives reduce conflict and foster cooperation.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino praised Trump’s efforts, stating, “You definitely deserve the first FIFA Peace Prize for your action, for what you have obtained in your way, but you obtained it in an incredible way. You can always count, Mr. President, on my support, on the support of the entire… soccer community to help you make peace and make the world prosper.”
Infantino emphasized the role of leadership in promoting unity and hope worldwide.
The ceremony, which doubled as the official draw for the first 48-team World Cup, is scheduled to feature performances from Andrea Bocelli, Robbie Williams, Nicole Scherzinger and the Village People, according to Just the News.
Trump joined Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum in the ceremonial group draw, determining the tournament’s first-stage matchups.
Sports Illustrated reports that Wayne Gretzky, Tom Brady, Aaron Judge and Shaquille O’Neal assisted with the event, reflecting the blend of sport, entertainment and political symbolism.
During his acceptance remarks, Trump highlighted accomplishments from his administration’s foreign policy, including efforts to de-escalate tensions in the Congo and prevent conflict between India and Pakistan.
“The world is a safer place now. The USA was not doing well a year ago, now we are the hottest country in the world right now,” he said, emphasizing that millions of lives had been spared through diplomatic initiatives.
Trump also praised FIFA for creating an award that encourages global leaders to pursue peace.
The FIFA Peace Prize was created following Trump’s unsuccessful 2025 campaign for the Nobel Peace Prize, which was awarded to Venezuelan pro-democracy activist María Corina Machado.
FIFA does not use formal nominations or finalist procedures, highlighting the organization’s goal of recognizing leaders based on perceived global impact rather than structured selection processes.
Analysts noted that the award provides a unique platform for political messaging while connecting it to the world of international sports.
Following the ceremonial portion, the World Cup draw established 12 groups of four teams each.
The tournament is scheduled to begin on June 11, 2026, and will conclude at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey and New York on July 19.
The draw also set the stage for international fans and teams to anticipate matchups, emphasizing the intersection of sports and diplomacy on a global stage.
Receiving FIFA’s inaugural Peace Prize provides Trump with a visible platform to highlight his administration’s global diplomacy achievements.
The award underscores FIFA’s intent to celebrate leaders whose actions reduce conflict and foster international cooperation, giving the event both sporting and political significance.
Political observers noted that the honor bolsters Trump’s international profile while reinforcing the connection between global sports and soft diplomacy.
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