President Donald Trump has become the first recipient of FIFA’s newly introduced Peace Award, presented during the draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
In presenting the award, FIFA stated that Trump “has contributed to peace in multiple countries, brokered ceasefires, and advanced diplomatic processes.” The organization credited him with halting eight conflicts, including one between Kosovo and Serbia.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino presented the award to Trump during a ceremony at the Kennedy Center in Washington. Trump described the honor as “one of the greatest of my life,” claiming that millions of lives were saved. He cited examples including Congo, India, and Pakistan, asserting that interventions prevented further casualties.
“The world is safer now. A year ago, the United States was not in such a good position,” Trump said following the award presentation.
Infantino praised Trump for “extraordinary actions to promote peace and unity worldwide.” FIFA announced in November that the award would be given annually to individuals who “bring hope to younger generations.”
Trump has repeatedly suggested he deserves the Nobel Peace Prize for his role in ending eight conflicts this year, including negotiating a ceasefire in Gaza. However, this year’s Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to Venezuelan opposition leader Marina Corina Machado.
Trump has also made organizing the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted jointly by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, a central focus of his second presidential term.
Meanwhile, Kosovo’s national football team has secured a playoff spot for World Cup qualification. If successful, the “Dardans” will compete in Group D alongside the U.S., Paraguay, and Australia.
