The British newspaper Telegraph requested comment from FIFA three times within 24 hours concerning a recent US military strike in Venezuela. Sources within FIFA confirmed the federation would not issue a statement on the matter.
FIFA's silence follows its controversial decision to award its Peace Prize to Trump on 5/12/2025, during the World Cup 2026 group stage draw ceremony in Washington D.C. This unique FIFA award came just three weeks after Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado received the Nobel Peace Prize, a stark contrast that immediately drew criticism for breaking FIFA tradition.
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US President Donald Trump (left) shakes hands with FIFA President Gianni Infantino at the World Cup 2026 group stage draw ceremony at the Kennedy Center, Washington D.C., on 5/12/2025. *Photo: AP* |
FIFA President Gianni Infantino publicly presented the US president with the award, a medal, and a certificate. "You can always count on my support", Infantino stated.
Trump immediately wore the medal, calling the award "one of the greatest honors in my life".
The award sparked considerable controversy at the time, as it broke with FIFA tradition.
On 3/1, the US launched a military strike in Venezuela. The operation resulted in at least 80 deaths, including 32 Cuban security personnel. Hours later, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife were arrested and transferred to the US to face charges related to drugs and weapons.
Following this event, the decision to award Trump FIFA's Peace Prize again became a subject of intense debate. The Irish newspaper Irish Times directly challenged Infantino, asking: "Gianni, how is FIFA's peace prize? Any second thoughts? Any doubts?" The newspaper did not hesitate to label FIFA and Infantino "the most foolish after this incident". According to Military Times, the Trump administration carried out 626 distinct airstrikes globally in 2025. For comparison, former President Joe Biden conducted a total of 555 airstrikes during his four years in office. The Irish Times sarcastically remarked, "The world has clearly become more dangerous in the past year, caused by the belligerent leader. But fine, just give him the peace prize."
The context became more complex as Trump continued to issue statements threatening military action in Colombia. Simultaneously, Denmark issued a warning, urging the US to cease military threats concerning Greenland.
Gianni Infantino, 55, has served as FIFA President since February 2016. He has demonstrated skill in engaging with strong leaders, from Russian President Vladimir Putin during Russia's hosting of the World Cup 2018, to Trump as the US prepares to co-host the World Cup 2026 with Canada and Mexico.
*By Hoang An (based on reports from The Telegraph, Irish Times)*
