FIFA leader Infantino supports awarding peace honour to Trump

The head of FIFA, Gianni Infantino, stood by his divisive choice to present a peace award to Donald Trump, the President of the United States, while rejecting demands for a boycott of the World Cup.

Infantino faced broad backlash for bestowing the accolade on Trump from his organisation during the draw for the 2026 World Cup held in Washington DC back in December.

The action faced added examination following the capture of Venezuelan leader Miguel Maduro by US troops, plus Trumps stirring up more debate with his interest in obtaining Greenland for security purposes.

Nonetheless, Infantino maintained that Trump merited FIFAs first ever peace award, stating to Sky News on Monday, Objectively, he merits it.

Whatever steps we can take to promote global peace, we ought to pursue them, and that is why, after some consideration, we decided to recognise those making positive contributions.

Infantino dismissed ideas of a potential boycott for this years World Cup, set to occur in the United States, Canada, and Mexico between June 11 and July 19, stemming from the Trump governments domestic and foreign policies.

Protests have erupted in various American cities, especially Minneapolis, regarding the Trump administrations handling of immigration measures.

Yet FIFA chief Infantino noted that calls for companies to shun a nation are rare, so why single out football?

The 55 year old continued, In our fractured world, in our hostile environment, we require events where individuals can gather and unite through their shared enthusiasm for football.

Infantino further indicated that FIFA and UEFA, the European football authority, must consider reinstating Russia in global competitions.

Russia remains excluded since its 2022 incursion into Ukraine, though the International Olympic Committee now advises sports bodies to permit Russian squads to participate at junior levels.

We must examine readmitting Russia, absolutely, Infantino affirmed.

This exclusion has accomplished nothing, merely fostering greater resentment and animosity.

Enabling young Russian players to compete in football matches across Europe would be beneficial.