FIFA President Gianni Infantino has pushed back strongly against criticism over his decision to award a peace prize to former U.S. President Donald Trump, insisting the honour was justified despite mounting controversy.
Infantino came under fire after presenting FIFA’s inaugural peace prize to Trump during the 2026 World Cup draw in Washington, D.C., in December. The decision has since drawn widespread backlash, particularly in light of recent geopolitical tensions linked to Trump’s administration.
Critics have questioned the timing and symbolism of the award, especially following reports of heightened U.S. military activity involving Venezuela’s President Nicolás Maduro and Trump’s renewed push to acquire Greenland, which he described as essential to U.S. national security.
Speaking in an interview with Sky News, Infantino dismissed calls for a boycott of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico from June 11 to July 19. Defending his stance, he said: “Objectively, he deserves it,” arguing that individuals who claim to work towards peace should be recognised.
Infantino also rejected the idea that political disagreements should interfere with football. “There have never been calls for businesses to boycott a country, so why football?” he asked, stressing that global tournaments like the World Cup are meant to unite people through a shared love of the game.
The FIFA president remained defiant despite ongoing protests across several U.S. cities over immigration policies, maintaining that football should remain a bridge between cultures rather than a battleground for political disputes.
Beyond the peace prize controversy, Infantino addressed the continued suspension of Russia from international football following its invasion of Ukraine in 2022. He suggested that FIFA and UEFA may eventually have to consider readmitting Russian teams, citing guidance from the International Olympic Committee that supports allowing Russian athletes to compete at youth level.
According to Infantino, the ban has failed to achieve its intended impact. “This ban has not achieved anything; it has just created more frustration and hatred,” he said, adding that reintegrating young Russian players could help foster dialogue, understanding and reconciliation across borders.
