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FIFA Announces New Global Peace Prize Amid Speculation About Recipient
FIFA has introduced a new annual peace prize to honor “individuals who have taken exceptional and extraordinary actions for peace,” the world soccer body announced this week. The initiative marks FIFA’s first formal recognition program focused specifically on peace efforts, though details about selection criteria and the judging process remain sparse.
The announcement has sparked widespread speculation about potential recipients, particularly whether it might be awarded to former U.S. President Donald Trump. FIFA President Gianni Infantino and Trump have developed a close working relationship in preparation for next year’s World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The timing of the announcement has raised eyebrows in diplomatic and sporting circles. On October 9, just one day before the Nobel Peace Prize announcement, Infantino wrote on Instagram that Trump “definitely deserves” the Nobel award for his efforts toward a peace deal in Gaza. The Nobel Committee ultimately honored Venezuelan pro-democracy activist María Corina Machado instead.
When questioned in Miami on Wednesday about Trump’s prospects for winning the FIFA prize, Infantino responded with a laugh, saying, “On the 5th of December, you will see.” Notably, both men were in Miami on the same day the peace prize was announced, each delivering speeches at a business leadership conference.
The inaugural FIFA peace prize will be presented on December 5 in Washington during the World Cup draw ceremony at the Kennedy Center. This represents a significant departure from tradition for the draw event, which typically focuses exclusively on soccer matters. The World Cup draw is a pivotal moment where qualifying nations learn their group placements for the tournament, setting the schedule for the opening phase of the 104-game competition.
The selection of the Kennedy Center as the venue carries additional significance, as Trump has been involved in reshaping the arts venue this year. The date and location for this high-profile soccer event were originally announced in the Oval Office in August, further highlighting the close relationship between FIFA and the former president.
When approached for comment, FIFA did not provide answers to questions from The Associated Press regarding the selection process or criteria for choosing a winner. Infantino has only stated that it’s “fundamental to recognize the outstanding contribution of those who work hard to end conflicts and bring people together in a spirit of peace.”
FIFA’s official statement indicates the award should reward individuals who have “taken exceptional and extraordinary actions for peace and by doing so have united people across the world.” While the organization has long promoted soccer as a tool for peace and unity, this marks its first formal peace prize program.
Industry observers note that if Trump were to receive the inaugural award, it would likely strengthen perceptions that the prize was created specifically in response to his not winning the Nobel Peace Prize. FIFA officials have been notably reserved in discussing plans surrounding the prize, with few coming forward to elaborate on the initiative.
The creation of this peace prize represents a new direction for FIFA, expanding its influence beyond sports and into global diplomatic recognition. How this initiative will be received by the international community and what impact it might have on FIFA’s standing remains to be seen as the December announcement approaches.
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8 Comments
This new FIFA peace prize raises some interesting questions. What will the selection criteria be, and how transparent will the process be? It will be fascinating to see who FIFA decides to recognize for their peace efforts.
Agreed, the selection criteria will be critical. FIFA’s close relationship with Trump has many questioning whether political considerations could influence the award.
While I appreciate FIFA’s intention to recognize peace efforts, the potential to award it to Trump raises some concerns. His record on human rights and diplomacy is quite controversial. Transparency in the selection process will be key.
Absolutely. Any perception of political influence or favoritism would seriously undermine the credibility of this new peace prize.
FIFA venturing into peace-related recognition is an interesting move. Given their own history, they’ll need to be very careful in how they design and administer this new prize. Transparency and objectivity will be essential.
The timing of this announcement, right before the Nobel Peace Prize, seems curious. Is FIFA trying to steal some of the spotlight? I’m curious to see how this new award is positioned and received globally.
Good point. The proximity to the Nobel announcement does seem strategic. FIFA will need to work hard to establish credibility and legitimacy for this new prize.
This is an intriguing development, though I have some reservations. FIFA has faced its own challenges with corruption and controversy over the years. I hope they can establish robust, impartial criteria to select genuine peace advocates for this award.