Trump’s FIFA peace prize triggers scrutiny of Infantino’s political neutrality

December 10, 2025 Oliver Obel

FIFA is facing fresh questions over its commitment to political neutrality after U.S. President Donald Trump received a newly created “FIFA Peace Prize” during last week’s World Cup draw in Washington, D.C. a moment that drew both applause in the room and confusion online.

The award, presented on stage by FIFA president Gianni Infantino at the Kennedy Center, was described on FIFA’s website as recognition of Trump’s efforts “to promote peace and unity around the world.”

The organisation highlighted what it called a pivotal role in pushing forward a ceasefire between Israel and Palestine.

But the unusual honour immediately prompted critics to ask how the prize came to exist and why it was bestowed at the draw rather than through a formal committee process.

Watchdog questions how the prize was created

FairSquare, a human-rights and governance watchdog known for scrutinising global sports bodies, has filed a detailed ethics complaint urging FIFA to explain the origins of the new award.

The group argues that Infantino’s conduct surrounding Trump both before and during the ceremony may have crossed the line set out in Article 15 of FIFA’s Code of Ethics, which bars officials from making political endorsements or taking positions that could appear partisan.

FairSquare also asked FIFA investigators to review the internal process for launching the prize, noting that FIFA has traditionally avoided presenting awards to active political leaders because of the organisation’s neutrality obligations.

Four incidents cited as potential breaches

In its submission, the group lists four examples it believes demonstrate undue political alignment.

The first stems from an Instagram post in which Infantino said Trump “definitely deserves” the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize. FairSquare argues such language goes beyond general praise and functions as a political endorsement, especially given ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.

A second example dates to remarks Infantino delivered at a business forum in Miami. He referred to Trump as “a really close friend” and encouraged attendees to back the administration’s work, adding that voters should “respect the results of the election.” Critics say the comments appeared to validate Trump’s political agenda.

The group also points to Infantino’s words during the World Cup draw itself, where he told Trump, “You can always count on my support,” as he handed over the gold trophy. The accompanying tribute video featured messaging about ending wars, which FairSquare says veered into political territory.

Last, the complaint highlights a social-media video in which Infantino thanked Trump for inviting him to a Washington rally and added: “Together we will make not only America great again but also the entire world.” The phrasing closely tracks Trump’s campaign motto.

What happens next

The complaint an eight-page letter backed by citations, screenshots, and event transcripts was delivered to FIFA’s Ethics Committee and communications department, according to reporting from The Athletic.

FIFA has not commented on when the committee might review the case or whether it plans to clarify how the Peace Prize was conceived.

For now, the controversy adds a new layer of scrutiny to an organisation that has repeatedly tried to distance itself from political influence ahead of a highly anticipated World Cup cycle.

Sources: Reuters, BBC, AP