FIFA President Gianni Infantino defends awarding U.S. President Donald Trump the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize, dismissing criticism and calls for a boycott of the 2026 World Cup in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has defended the decision to award U.S. President Donald Trump the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize, dismissing criticism and growing calls for a boycott of the 2026 World Cup co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

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Speaking in a detailed interview with Sky News, Infantino emphasised that the prize honours individuals who contribute to global peace.

“Objectively, he deserves it. Whatever we can do to help peace in the world, we should be doing it,” he said, citing Trump’s diplomatic efforts, including ratified ceasefires and peace negotiations.

The award, first presented during the World Cup draw in Washington D.C. last December, has drawn protests from rights groups and analysts who questioned its transparency and potential violation of FIFA’s political neutrality.

Addressing boycott discussions, Infantino rejected calls from European circles to avoid the tournament.

“In our divided world, in our aggressive world, we need occasions where people can come, can meet around the passion [for football],” he stated. He argued that sports should not be singled out when political and commercial disagreements persist globally.

Infantino also touched on other controversies, including the potential readmission of Russia into international football despite its ban following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

He suggested FIFA and UEFA need to balance sanctions with reconciliation, particularly at youth levels, to prevent frustration and hatred.

The FIFA president’s comments highlight the ongoing intersection of sports, politics, and diplomacy ahead of what is shaping up to be one of the most politically charged World Cups in history.

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Observers warn that FIFA’s handling of the Peace Prize and tournament preparation could have lasting implications for the organisation’s global reputation and fan engagement.