Former US president Donald Trump was awarded Fifa’s first-ever peace prize at the World Cup draw in Washington, a decision that immediately triggered global debate over sport’s role in diplomacy and the increasingly political nature of major football events. The award, presented during the ceremony for the 2026 tournament, was framed by organisers as recognition of efforts to promote dialogue, yet it drew mixed reactions across the sporting and political landscape.
A symbolic award with political overtones
Fifa said the new peace prize was created to acknowledge individuals who contribute to conflict reduction and international understanding through sport. In presenting the inaugural award to Trump, the organisation highlighted his administration’s role in brokering the Abraham Accords and facilitating regional negotiations in the Middle East. Officials described the gesture as a way to “bridge global divides” during a moment of heightened geopolitical tension.
Public reaction splits sharply
The announcement received a swift and polarised response. Supporters argued that the award recognises tangible diplomatic achievements and reinforces football’s capacity to serve as a unifying platform. Critics, however, questioned the appropriateness of honouring a political figure whose tenure was marked by controversy, domestic unrest and strained international relationships. Human rights groups criticised Fifa for what they described as an overtly political move, noting that sport governing bodies traditionally strive for neutrality.
Football diplomacy expands its reach
The timing of the award, delivered on the global stage of the World Cup draw, underscored Fifa’s ambition to position football as a mechanism for soft power. Officials emphasised that the prize is part of a wider strategy to link major tournaments to broader peace initiatives, cultural exchange and international cooperation. This aligns with the governing body’s recent attempts to reshape its global image after a decade of governance reforms.
Washington hosts a high-profile and politically charged event
Hosting the draw in Washington allowed organisers to place the United States at the centre of the tournament’s narrative ahead of 2026, which the country will co-host with Canada and Mexico. The event featured senior US politicians, global dignitaries and representatives from all competing nations, reinforcing the political significance of the moment. Trump, who has remained a prominent figure in American public life, used his remarks to urge unity while praising the “global power of football”.
A gesture that may shape future tournaments
As the sporting world prepares for the 2026 World Cup, Fifa’s decision is likely to set a precedent for how political actors are recognised in connection with the tournament. While the peace prize aims to celebrate diplomacy, it also highlights the challenges of balancing global representation with contested public figures. How the award is perceived in the months ahead may influence both Fifa’s reputation and the broader intersection between sport and geopolitics.
Newshub Editorial in North America – 6 December 2025
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