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Infantino Defends Trump’s FIFA Peace Prize Amid Controversy

2/3/2026

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Summary

Story summary

FIFA President Gianni Infantino defended awarding the FIFA Peace Prize to U.S. President Donald Trump during the 2026 World Cup draw.
Infantino dismissed calls for a World Cup boycott, stating that football should not be penalized for political issues.
Infantino also suggested FIFA could consider allowing Russia back into international football.
The World Cup is scheduled for June 11 to July 19, 2026, in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

History

Historical Context

FIFA established the Peace Prize in 2025 to honor individuals for exceptional contributions to peace. The inaugural award went to U.S. President Donald Trump on December 5, 2025, amid scrutiny following FIFA's 2018 suspension of Russia from international football due to its annexation of Crimea. This reflects a historical pattern of sports organizations navigating political tensions, reminiscent of the 1980 Moscow Olympics boycott.

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Story summary

FIFA President Gianni Infantino defended awarding the FIFA Peace Prize to U.S. President Donald Trump during the 2026 World Cup draw.
Infantino dismissed calls for a World Cup boycott, stating that football should not be penalized for political issues.
Infantino also suggested FIFA could consider allowing Russia back into international football.
The World Cup is scheduled for June 11 to July 19, 2026, in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

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