FIFA president Gianni Infantino has established a new peace prize within the soccer organization, shortly after President Trump failed to secure the Nobel Peace Prize he had openly sought. The move appears closely tied to Infantino's efforts to strengthen his relationship with Trump, with FIFA's own award announcement surprising even its senior officials. The award will be revealed alongside the 2026 men's World Cup draw at the Kennedy Center in Washington, a venue whose use by FIFA has drawn scrutiny over possible political favoritism and financial arrangements.

Infantino has repeatedly praised Trump and aligned FIFA's activities with the president, including renting office space in Trump Tower and attending non-soccer events. Their close partnership is seen as central to preparations for the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted largely in the United States. Critics, including former FIFA officials, have raised concerns about the organization's political neutrality, while Trump has used the World Cup as leverage in domestic political disputes. The event at the Kennedy Center, featuring sports celebrities and entertainment, underscores the merging of sports, politics, and personal alliances in the lead-up to the tournament.