In a surprise ceremony blending global diplomacy and the world’s most popular sport, U.S. President Donald Trump was awarded the first-ever FIFA Peace Prize during the official draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
The event, held on a crisp Friday afternoon, marked a historic moment for FIFA, soccer’s governing body, as it unveiled the new annual honor to recognize “exceptional and extraordinary actions for peace” and efforts to “unite people across the world through the beautiful game.”
FIFA President Gianni Infantino personally presented the gleaming gold trophy – reminiscent of the World Cup itself – to Trump onstage, approximately 30 minutes into the glitzy, star-studded draw ceremony.
Trump, flanked by Infantino and joined by dignitaries from co-host nations Canada and Mexico, accepted the award to thunderous applause from the audience, which included soccer legends, FIFA executives, and international leaders. “This is truly one of the great honors of my life,” Trump declared, his voice booming through the Kennedy Center’s grand hall. “Beyond awards… we saved millions and millions of lives.”
He went on to tout his administration’s role in brokering ceasefires in the Middle East, de-escalating tensions in Eastern Europe, and fostering global unity – claims that have been central to his long-standing pursuit of higher-profile peace recognitions, including the Nobel Prize.
Donald Trump said, “We have saved millions of lives in Congo, in India, in Pakistan.
“The world is more in order than ever before. Receiving this Peace Prize is one of the greatest honors of my life.
“So many wars that we have managed to end, sometimes before they even start.”
The FIFA Peace Prize, officially titled “FIFA Peace Prize – Football Unites the World,” was announced just a month ago on November 5, 2025, in what many observers described as a hastily assembled initiative.
Insiders revealed it caught even some senior FIFA board members off guard, with the decision reportedly fast-tracked to coincide with the World Cup draw.
The timing couldn’t have been more symbolic: The 2026 tournament, co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, will feature a record 104 matches across 16 North American cities, starting June 11 and culminating in the final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 19.
Trump’s administration has been pivotal in securing U.S. hosting rights since 2018, and his close alliance with Infantino – forged through Oval Office meetings, joint announcements like the “FIFA PASS” visa fast-track for ticket holders, and even Trump’s quip about keeping a World Cup replica trophy – has deepened in recent months.
Infantino, a vocal Trump supporter, praised the president as a “close friend” who has “brought hope to future generations” and exemplified how soccer can bridge divides.