Scandal after the establishment of groups at WC 2026. Donald Trump and Gianni Infantino, accused of turning the event into political propaganda. FIFA, held accountable
During Wednesday evening, the composition of the groups for the 2026 World Cup was determined, a competition that will take place next summer in the United States, Mexico and Canada.
Donald Trump, honored with the FIFA Peace Prize Photo/Imago
However, the event did not end without controversy, the protagonists of the first scandal being the president of FIFA, Gianni Infantino, and the leader of the USA, Donald Trump.
Before the polls opened, Donald Trump was honored with the FIFA Peace Prize, an award designed to reward “outstanding initiatives dedicated to global harmony and collaboration”a prize that had never been offered before.
“The problem is that the award goes to a person actively involved in politics!”
After the proceedings ended, there were critical reactions accusing FIFA and Donald Trump of turning the moment into a tool for political promotion. Among the voices that condemned the situation was Miguel Maduro, a former official of the institution, who claimed that the awarding of the award was against internal rules.
“The fact that FIFA gave a peace prize is not problematic at all. The problem only arises when the prize goes to a person actively involved in politics.
It is a violation of political neutrality. First, FIFA takes a political stance on the activity of a political actor, in this case Trump. Secondly, it is a political gesture to give an award to such a man. If the Ethics Commission concludes that the regulation has been followed, then it must also provide an argument. I am very curious about this argument!“said Miguel Maduro, quoted by nrk.no.
During his tenure at FIFA, Miguel Maduro headed the commission responsible for compliance with the organization's statutes, which stipulate, among other things, the world forum's obligation to remain free from any political influence.
“We honor a dynamic leader, Donald J. Trump!”
“We honor a dynamic leader who engaged in diplomatic efforts that created opportunities for dialogue, de-escalation and stability, and championed the unifying power of soccer on the world stage.
The first FIFA Peace Prize is proudly presented to the President of the USA, the Honorable Donald J. Trump.He supported efforts to negotiate cease-fires and promote diplomatic engagement, actions that helped create the conditions in which peace could take root!”was the explanation given during the trophy presentation clip
