By Sport Analyst
Emmanuel Afonja
U.S. President Donald Trump was honoured in Washington, D.C., on Friday night as the first recipient of FIFA’s newly established Global Peace Prize, a landmark recognition unveiled during the official draw for the 2026 World Cup.
The ceremony, held at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, saw FIFA President Gianni Infantino invite President Trump to the stage to receive the award — a trophy, a medal, and a framed citation.
Infantino praised Trump for what he described as “exceptional contributions to peace, unity, and global stability,” noting that the new prize was created to highlight individuals whose influence extends beyond sports.
“This is your award — your peace prize,” Infantino told the President. “And here is a medal that you may wear proudly wherever you choose.”
According to FIFA, the Global Peace Prize honours “people who play a significant role in bridging divides and promoting harmony across nations.” While the governing body has not revealed details of the selection process, future recommendations will be overseen by a new social-responsibility committee chaired by Myanmar businessman Zaw Zaw.
In his acceptance speech, President Trump described the honour as one of the most meaningful recognitions he has ever received.
“We have saved millions and millions of lives,” Trump said. “Look at the Congo — over 10 million lives lost, and it was heading toward another tragedy. India and Pakistan — so many conflicts we stopped before they erupted. We stepped in when it mattered most.”
Trump also applauded Infantino’s leadership and FIFA’s massive global reach, noting record ticket sales ahead of the 2026 tournament.
“This World Cup will be unlike anything humanity has ever seen,” he declared.
He ended on a confident note: “The world is safer today… and the United States is the hottest and most dynamic country anywhere on Earth.”
