London: The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) has announced the creation of a new annual award — the FIFA Peace Prize — aimed at recognising individuals who have taken exceptional and extraordinary actions to promote peace and unity across the world.
The inaugural award will be presented on Friday, 5 December 2025, during the FIFA World Cup 2026 draw in Washington DC. FIFA President Gianni Infantino will personally hand over the honour to the first-ever recipient.
“In an increasingly unsettled and divided world, it is fundamental to recognise the outstanding contribution of those who work hard to end conflicts and bring people together in a spirit of peace,” Infantino said in FIFA’s official statement.
“Football stands for peace, and this award will celebrate the individuals whose efforts unite people and inspire future generations.”
Speculation Surrounds First Winner
While FIFA has not yet disclosed the name of the inaugural laureate, speculation continues to swirl around possible candidates. Some observers have linked the timing and context of the award to Infantino’s close association with U.S. President Donald Trump, particularly since the United States is co-hosting the 2026 World Cup alongside Canada and Mexico.
Infantino, who has appeared with Trump at several public events, described the American leader as a “really close friend.”
“We have a great relationship,” Infantino told reporters. “I consider him a really close friend.”
Trump recently missed out on the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize, which was awarded to Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado. Following the Nobel announcement, a White House official criticised the committee for “placing politics over peace.”
When asked whether Trump might receive FIFA’s inaugural Peace Prize, Infantino remained noncommittal, simply saying, “You will see.”
FIFA’s Message: Football as a Force for Peace
The introduction of the Peace Prize reinforces FIFA’s broader message that football transcends borders and politics. The organisation aims to highlight the sport’s role in fostering unity, bringing together people from different nations, cultures, and beliefs.
The award is expected to become a regular annual honour, similar to FIFA’s The Best Awards, celebrating not just athletic excellence but also humanitarian and peace-driven leadership.
