The international sports governing body FIFA is facing growing criticism after awarding U.S. President Donald Trump its newly created Peace Prize, just weeks before Washington launched a major military action in Venezuela.
The controversy stems from Saturday’s surprise U.S. strikes in Caracas, which included the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro — a move confirmed by Trump on his social media platform. Venezuela’s government condemned the attack as “extremely serious military aggression” and declared a national emergency. These dramatic developments have now put FIFA’s peace honor in the spotlight.
Trump received the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize during last month’s World Cup 2026 draw ceremony in Washington, D.C. FIFA President Gianni Infantino presented the award, praising Trump’s global leadership and conflict mediation efforts. The prize was introduced as part of FIFA’s plan to recognize figures who “promote peace and unity around the world.”
But critics say the timing and choice of recipient clash sharply with FIFA’s stated commitment to political neutrality. A watchdog group called FairSquare filed an ethics complaint with FIFA’s internal watchdog, arguing that giving a peace prize to a sitting political leader — particularly one now associated with military intervention — violates FIFA’s own neutrality rules. The complaint also highlights concerns that the award was created and presented without proper governance oversight.
The backlash intensified after the U.S. military operation in Venezuela. Commentators and fans questioned whether the peace honor still holds meaning when bestowed on a leader whose actions include the use of force abroad. Some observers have taken to social media to ponder whether the award should be reconsidered or even returned, reflecting broad discomfort within the global football community.
So far, FIFA has remained largely silent, declining to publicly criticize the U.S. military action even as calls mount for clarification. Critics argue that the organization’s credibility is at stake as it prepares to help stage the World Cup across the United States, Canada, and Mexico later this year.
We will continue to follow this developing story and bring you the latest updates.
Reporting By Henry Nichols.
