FIFA’s New “Peace Prize” to Trump Sparks Outcry Over Loss of Political Neutrality

The decision by FIFA President Gianni Infantino to award the newly created FIFA Peace Prize to Donald Trump has triggered a wave of criticism, raising serious questions about whether FIFA can remain a neutral sporting body while entangling itself in partisan politics.

The inaugural prize was presented during the 2026 World Cup draw in Washington, DC, with Infantino praising Trump’s diplomatic initiatives and branding him a leader committed to “unity and safety.”

Trump accepted the award, calling it “one of the greatest honors” of his life and claiming he had saved “millions of lives” by diffusing global conflicts, including tensions in Africa and South Asia.

However, critics have condemned the move as a blatant breach of FIFA’s own neutrality rules, pointing out that the prize was established and awarded without any transparent selection process, public criteria, or prior consultation with FIFA’s governing council.

Even former FIFA officials have voiced concern that the organization appears to be prioritizing political alliances over fair play.

Observers note that when individual players or teams face disciplinary action for political messages on the field, FIFA cites its neutrality policy, yet now the governing body itself seems to be openly endorsing a highly polarizing political figure.

Human-rights activists and campaigners have labelled the award “a shameful development,” arguing that it whitewashes Trump’s controversial record, including support for aggressive military actions abroad and aggressive immigration and domestic policies.

They warn that the decision further undermines FIFA’s credibility, suggesting the competition body has abandoned any pretense of impartiality and is instead aligning itself with powerful political interests.

As backlash grows, many football fans and stakeholders question whether FIFA’s mission to unite people through sports can survive an apparent pivot toward political patronage.

The Peace Prize has set a dangerous precedent: the safeguarding of global football may now become dependent not on sporting ethics, but on political favour.

Source: Al Jazeera · Reuters · The Guardian · The Independent