FIFA has introduced a new annual award known as the FIFA Peace Prize, which will be awarded for the first time during the draw for the 2026 World Cup finals on December 5 in Washington D.C. This initiative aims to honor individuals who have made significant contributions to promoting peace globally. Dubbed the “FIFA Peace Prize – Football Unites the World,” FIFA established this award to recognize those whose extraordinary actions foster unity and resolve conflict.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino emphasized the need to acknowledge the efforts of individuals striving to create a harmonious world amidst rising global tensions, stating, “Football stands for peace.” He voiced the collective sentiment of the football community, hoping that this prize would inspire future generations and promote a hopeful vision of togetherness.
The upcoming World Cup is set to be a historical event, uniquely hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, marking the first time the tournament expands to feature 48 teams. Additionally, with a record 104 matches scheduled across 16 host cities, anticipation is building among fans worldwide. President Donald Trump previously announced that the draw would occur at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington D.C., and Infantino expressed pride in the U.S. playing a unifying role through this global event.
The anticipation surrounding both the Peace Prize and the World Cup underscores a hopeful narrative that these prominent occasions will not only showcase sporting excellence but will also highlight football’s capacity to bridge divides and promote camaraderie among diverse communities. As the world prepares for these events, there is optimism that they will serve as a platform for dialogue on global issues while celebrating the beauty of football as a unifying force.