Miami, FL – November 5, 2025 – FIFA has unveiled a new annual award, the FIFA Peace Prize, which will be awarded for the first time during the 2026 World Cup draw in Washington. The announcement, made by FIFA president Gianni Infantino on Wednesday, aims to honor individuals who have used the power of football to unite people and promote peace across the world.
What Is the FIFA Peace Prize?
The FIFA Peace Prize, introduced as part of FIFA’s commitment to global unity, will recognize individuals who have made significant efforts to unite communities, foster peace, and inspire hope for future generations. In his statement, Infantino emphasized the role of football in promoting peace: “Football stands for peace, and on behalf of the entire global football community, the FIFA Peace Prize – Football Unites the World will recognise the enormous efforts of those individuals who unite people, bringing hope for future generations.”
The award will be presented during the 2026 World Cup draw, which is set to take place on December 5, 2025, at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. The event will mark the official start of the lead-up to the 2026 World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, 2026.
Speculation Surrounding the First Recipient
While FIFA has not revealed the recipient of the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize, speculation has already begun. There is widespread anticipation that U.S. President Donald Trump, an ally of Infantino, could be among the early frontrunners for the award. Trump is expected to be present at the December 5 draw, where the FIFA Peace Prize will be presented.
Trump, who was recently re-elected for a second term, has publicly claimed that he deserves the Nobel Peace Prize for his role in resolving global conflicts. This statement was made following his involvement in international diplomatic efforts, though he was notably snubbed by the Norwegian Nobel Committee last month when the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to Maria Corina Machado, a Venezuelan opposition leader.
The Role of Football in Global Peace Efforts
The FIFA Peace Prize represents a significant expansion of FIFA’s role in social issues, acknowledging the sport’s ability to transcend borders and connect people across cultural and political divides. Football, as the world’s most popular sport, has long been seen as a powerful tool for fostering unity and dialogue in conflict zones and divided communities.
In the coming years, FIFA hopes that the FIFA Peace Prize will inspire further efforts in peacebuilding and conflict resolution, showcasing football’s potential to change lives and promote international cooperation.
Closing
The introduction of the FIFA Peace Prize underscores football’s role as a force for good in the world, using its universal appeal to bring about positive social change. As the 2026 World Cup approaches, the award will highlight individuals whose actions align with the values of peace, unity, and hope that the sport embodies.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
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