The 2026 FIFA World Cup draw in Washington DC turned into a huge political moment after United States President Donald Trump was honoured with the first-ever 2026 FIFA World Cup Peace Prize. The event, already packed with global leaders and celebrities, became even more dramatic as football’s world body chose to introduce this brand-new award on the same night as the draw.
READ MORE:
- 2026 World Cup Draw Boosts Messi vs Ronaldo 2026 FIFA World Cup Clash Chances
- Australia 44 Run Lead Gabba Test: Dramatic Over Suddenly Leaves England Back in the Game
Trump Honoured With 2026 FIFA World Cup Peace Prize
For the first time in its history, FIFA introduced the 2026 FIFA World Cup Peace Prize, a special award created by its president, Gianni Infantino. According to FIFA, this honour is meant for someone who has shown “exceptional and extraordinary actions for peace” and has worked to “unite people around the world.”
Many expected Trump to be the first winner, especially because he has made several public appearances with Infantino in recent months. Their strong partnership was on full display when Trump walked into the ceremony with Infantino by his side.
At the Kennedy Center in Washington DC, Trump was presented with a large golden trophy, a medal and a certificate for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Peace Prize. While receiving the award, Trump said he had helped save “tens of millions of lives” through diplomatic efforts and claimed he had stopped multiple wars “just before they started.” He then called the honour “one of the great honours” of his life.
Trump also praised Infantino, saying the 2026 World Cup had already broken records for ticket sales. “Gianni has done an incredible job,” Trump said. “This tournament will be bigger than anyone imagined. The 2026 FIFA World Cup Peace Prize is a great recognition of efforts to make the world safer.”
The 2026 World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico from June 11 to July 19. This will be the first edition featuring 48 teams.
A Politically Charged World Cup Draw
The draw ceremony had a strong political atmosphere, especially because it took place just one mile from the White House. The Kennedy Center, the famous arts venue where the event was held, is now chaired by Trump himself after major changes were made to its board earlier this year.
The ceremony featured famous football personalities, American sports stars and international actors, but it was clear that the event was shaped around the US president. Even the 1970s music group Village People were invited to perform “YMCA”, a song famously played at Trump’s campaign rallies.
In another unusual decision, the 2026 FIFA World Cup Peace Prize was awarded during the draw itself, breaking FIFA’s usual tradition. Critics saw this as a sign that Infantino and Trump have formed a very close political alliance.
Trump later returned to the stage along with Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum and Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney for the ceremonial opening of the World Cup draw. Each leader pulled out the ball containing the name of their country, even though their groups had already been decided. Afterward, they all posed for a selfie taken by Infantino.
Mexico were placed in Group A and will play the opening match of the tournament. Canada landed in Group B, while the United States were put in Group D. Trump also joked about the long-running debate in the US about the word “football,” saying the country should “find another name for the NFL” since soccer is the world’s real football.
Despite the cheerful mood on stage, the political overtones raised concerns. Several critics argued that FIFA’s close relationship with Trump risks breaking its long-standing rule of political neutrality. Some felt the draw and the 2026 FIFA World Cup Peace Prize were being used to promote a political message linked to the “Make America Great Again” movement.
However, supporters inside FIFA defended the award. One senior official said football is so influential globally that the 2026 FIFA World Cup Peace Prize could become “bigger than the Nobel Peace Prize.” They added that FIFA has recognised leaders before, such as when the president of Argentina received an award in 2019 without any major controversy, proving the 2026 FIFA World Cup Peace Prize is a positive step for global unity and football diplomacy.
By presenting the 2026 FIFA World Cup Peace Prize, FIFA aims to highlight the power of football to unite people across nations, even as the event takes on a political dimension.
SEE MORE:
source: BBC Sports
