Post by : Meena Ariff

FIFA President Gianni Infantino is under scrutiny after awarding the organization’s first-ever peace prize to former US President Donald Trump, raising concerns over political neutrality and governance within the world football body.

Human rights group FairSquare has filed a formal complaint with FIFA’s Ethics Committee, claiming that Infantino’s actions go against the global football community’s interests. The group argues that awarding a peace prize to a sitting political leader is a violation of FIFA’s rules and, if done without proper authority, constitutes an abuse of power.

The controversy began during the World Cup 2026 draw on December 6 in Washington, D.C., where Infantino presented Trump with a gold trophy, medal, and certificate. “This is your prize; this is your peace prize,” Infantino told Trump, while FIFA showcased a video highlighting some of the former president’s efforts in so-called peace agreements.

Nicholas McGeehan, FairSquare’s program director, said the issue is broader than political favoritism. “This highlights how FIFA’s governance allows actions that undermine the integrity of the sport,” he said.

The complaint also pointed to Infantino’s earlier lobbying for Trump to receive the Nobel Peace Prize for his role in the Israel-Gaza conflict, which ultimately went to Venezuelan politician Maria Corina Machado. Human Rights Watch has also criticized FIFA’s decision, noting that Trump’s administration record does not reflect exceptional contributions to peace or unity.

FIFA’s Ethics Committee can issue warnings, fines, reprimands, or even bans from football-related activities, though it remains uncertain if the committee will investigate this complaint. Observers note that current FIFA ethics investigators are viewed as less independent than in past years, raising doubts about potential outcomes.

During the draw, Trump received the most attention, even with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney present. The event also officially announced venues and groups for the 2026 World Cup, to be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

The incident has sparked global debate over FIFA’s governance and whether political figures should be recognized within football, putting the organization’s neutrality under the spotlight.

#Global News #Sports News #Donald Trump