What was intended to be a joyful occasion celebrating the World Cup draw turned into a somber display of one person’s political flattery. FIFA president Gianni Infantino, a supporter of the “Make America Great Again” movement, presented a newly created “Peace Prize” to US President Donald Trump at an event held near the White House. The ceremony, held at the Kennedy Centre under the chairmanship of the US president, was marked by political theatrics.
The moment took a shocking turn as Trump, who was being honored for “peace,” was engaged in military actions off Venezuela and considering rewarding Vladimir Putin with parts of Ukraine for his aggressive invasion. A lavish montage highlighting Trump and a trophy already engraved with his name were prominently showcased. Infantino returned to the stage to introduce “the first recipient of the FIFA Peace Prize: Mr. Donald Trump,” drawing applause from the audience.
Trump received a gold medal and a certificate, which he proudly displayed, creating a spectacle that left many spectators feeling uneasy. The event, meant to promote peace and unity in football, instead showcased the global governing body as a mere publicity tool for a polarizing world leader. Infantino’s unquestioning admiration for Trump, despite the ongoing military actions under his leadership, cast a shadow over FIFA’s credibility.
Despite claims of political neutrality, Infantino’s close association with Trump has raised concerns. The ceremony, marked by mutual admiration and a staged photo-op, was far from a diplomatic gesture but rather an act of reverence. The focus shifted from the spirit of football to personal ego and power dynamics between two influential figures who view the world as a platform for their ambitions.
The incident tarnished the beauty of the game, turning it from a symbol of unity to a display of self-aggrandizement. Football enthusiasts worldwide watched in dismay as the sport’s essence was sacrificed for a spectacle of power and vanity.
