In a significant move for international sports, FIFA has announced the creation of a new annual FIFA Peace Prize aimed at recognizing individuals who promote unity and hope through football.
The inaugural award will be presented during the 2026 World Cup draw ceremony scheduled for December 5 at the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C. FIFA President Gianni Infantino stated that “Football stands for peace, and on behalf of the entire global football community, the FIFA Peace Prize will recognize the enormous efforts of those individuals who unite people, bringing hope for future generations.”
The announcement came during the America Business Forum in Miami, where both Infantino and Argentine football legend Lionel Messi were featured speakers alongside US President Donald Trump. While the first recipient remains undisclosed, speculation immediately arose that President Trump, who has positioned himself as chairman of the Kennedy Center and a close ally of Infantino, could be the inaugural honoree.
The 2026 World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, marking the first time the tournament will be shared by three nations.
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Disclaimer: This article reports on an official announcement from FIFA. The selection process and criteria for the Peace Prize remain at the discretion of the international football governing body.
