Trump Steals the Spotlight with FIFA Peace Prize at World Cup Event

Former U.S. President Donald Trump received FIFA's inaugural peace prize at the 2026 World Cup draw, despite initially claiming he did not seek any awards. Trump was celebrated for efforts to promote dialogue in conflict zones. The event at Washington’s Kennedy Center saw Trump in the limelight amid policy controversies.

Donald Trump, the former U.S. president, unexpectedly received FIFA's inaugural peace prize during the 2026 World Cup draw, despite not seeking the award. Trump, known for his aggressive Nobel Peace Prize campaign, was lauded for his efforts promoting dialogue in global conflict zones.

The event at Washington's Kennedy Center, attended by international leaders, saw Trump dominating the spotlight. The U.S. will co-host the 2026 tournament with Canada and Mexico. Despite sharing the stage with Canada's Prime Minister Mark Carney and Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum, it was predominantly Trump's event.

The occasion included a performance by Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli. FIFA's President, Gianni Infantino, praised Trump, who later boasted about the U.S.'s global standing. The award was given amid Trump's administration controversies, including immigration policy changes and derogatory comments about Somali immigrants.

(With inputs from agencies.)