US President Donald Trump with FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who presented him with the FIFA Peace Prize. (December 5, 2026)
FIFA officials feel "embarrassment" over Trump peace prize award
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FIFA is experiencing increasing internal discomfort regarding its decision to award the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize to US President Donald Trump, a move that has drawn scrutiny amid recent developments.
Mid-level and senior officials within the organization have expressed unease over the lack of transparency in the selection process and the timing of the award, which was presented during the 2026 World Cup draw in Washington, D.C., in December 2025.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino personally handed the prize to Trump, praising him for promoting hope, unity, and a positive future.
The prize was established by FIFA in November 2025, shortly after Trump was overlooked for the Nobel Peace Prize, and was intended to recognize exceptional actions fostering peace and global unity.
However, the decision has been perceived as political pandering, particularly given Infantino's public friendship with Trump and FIFA's history of controversies involving corruption and favoritism.
Critics argue that the award lacks a formal nomination process, undisclosed judging criteria, and substantive justification, further tarnishing the organization's reputation.
Embarrassment has intensified following US military actions under Trump's administration, including airstrikes in Venezuela that led to the abduction of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife on charges of drug trafficking and narco-terrorism.
Maduro pleaded not guilty in a US court on January 5, 2026.
Additionally, Trump's threats to invade Greenland and impose strikes on Mexico, a co-host of the 2026 World Cup, have raised concerns about diplomatic tensions affecting the tournament.
Anonymous FIFA sources cited by The Guardian have described the situation as causing "deep embarrassment," with one senior official noting that hosting the World Cup in the US will be "very delicate" and "difficult" due to these events.
Another official emphasized a desire to avoid involvement in surrounding politics, stating, "My job concerns football on the pitch and nothing else."
FIFA declined to comment on anonymous "hearsay" regarding internal dissent.
