Fifa Peace Prize Under Fire: Infantino Told to Scrap or Depoliticise 2026

Fifa's controversial peace prize is under intense scrutiny after top Fifa figures told Gianni Infantino to either scrap or depoliticise the award following the furore over Donald Trump. The demand came during Thursday's meeting of the Fifa council, where several members voiced strong concerns about the prize's association with the former US president.

Fifa Council Members Demand Major Changes

The Guardian has learned that during the meeting, several council members demanded the award be abolished entirely, while others called for it to be depoliticised. The issue was raised at the start of the meeting when Infantino announced that the peace prize had been handed to the social responsibility committee. Council members later returned to the subject, asking a series of questions about potential conflicts of interest at Fifa.

There is a strong view among council members that the peace prize in its current form is tainted by its association with Trump. Some members raised concerns that the US president could object and create a diplomatic storm if he does not like the identity of its next recipient.

The Future of the Fifa Peace Prize

Fifa's 22-person social responsibility committee, which is dominated by representatives from countries loyal to Infantino, will make a recommendation before the next council meeting in Doha on 16 December. Abolition may be avoided on the grounds that it would represent a humiliation for the Fifa president, although there is widespread acceptance that change is required.

One council member told the Guardian that the most likely outcome discussed is the reinvention of the peace prize as a more football-focused award, potentially recognising contributions to the sport rather than political figures. This would align with Fifa's core mission and reduce the risk of political fallout.

Key Takeaways from the Fifa Council Meeting

• Fifa council members demanded the peace prize be scrapped or depoliticised.
• The award is seen as tainted by its association with Donald Trump.
• The social responsibility committee will make a recommendation before the next meeting on 16 December.
• Abolition may be avoided to prevent humiliation for Infantino.
• The prize could be reinvented as a football-focused award.

Comparison of Potential Outcomes

Implications for Fifa and Infantino

The controversy surrounding the peace prize has put Infantino in a difficult position. On one hand, he faces pressure from council members to make significant changes; on the other, abolishing the award could be seen as a personal defeat and might strain relations with Trump.

The social responsibility committee's recommendation will be crucial in determining the next steps. If the committee suggests depoliticising the prize, it could be reframed to honour individuals or organisations that have made significant contributions to football and social development, rather than political leaders.

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