• Donald Trump received FIFA's inaugural Peace Prize at the 2026 World Cup draw.
• FIFA President Gianni Infantino praised Trump's contributions to global peace.
• The event drew both celebrities and political figures, emphasizing Trump's prominent role.
• Controversy erupted over FIFA’s political neutrality during the award presentation.
• Critics highlighted concerns about the implications of Trump's award amid his controversial policies.

During the 2026 World Cup draw held at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., U.S. President Donald Trump was awarded FIFA's inaugural Peace Prize, an unprecedented honor for the football organization. FIFA President Gianni Infantino lauded Trump's contributions to peace efforts around the world, declaring, “You obtained it in an incredible way,” while presenting him with the award. This marks a shift in FIFA's typical focus from sporting events to geopolitical dialogues, raising eyebrows about the organization's intentions and political neutrality, according to SCMP, Sfgate, and AA.

Infantino emphasized the significance of the award, stating it was designed for “individuals who have taken exceptional and extraordinary actions for peace.” Trump, who has pursued the Nobel Peace Prize, expressed gratitude, calling it “one of the great honors of my life,” and claimed that his diplomatic negotiations have "saved millions of lives," according to Dawn, BBC, and Times of India.

The award ceremony had an aura of political spectacle, featuring celebrities, athletes, and high-profile politicians, alongside a gold trophy presented to Trump. Infantino's public support for Trump, who had been closely involved with FIFA's leadership, further blurs the lines between sports and political endorsement. Critics voiced concerns about the implications of this close association, stating it may undermine FIFA's commitment to political neutrality, as outlined in its own statutes, according to Middle East Eye and Sfgate.

Additionally, this moment came amid Trump’s ongoing administration controversies, including criticisms regarding his immigration policies and military actions, which have prompted protests at the event. Protests organized by various groups highlighted dissatisfaction with Trump's handling of immigration policies, prompting further scrutiny of the messages conveyed through this soccer-related accolade, as noted by Middle East Eye and AA.