Overview
- In a new interview, FIFA president Gianni Infantino said President Donald Trump "objectively" deserved the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize, crediting him with helping resolve conflicts and save lives.
- Infantino rejected calls to boycott the 2026 World Cup in North America, arguing bans and boycotts "don't bring anything" and asking why football should be targeted when trade and diplomacy continue.
- He urged reconsidering Russia’s suspension, at least for youth levels, saying the ban has "achieved nothing" but frustration and noting ongoing discussions in global sport, with UEFA meetings due later this month.
- Infantino apologized for a joke about British supporters and the 2022 World Cup, saying he meant a light‑hearted remark and that it was not his intention to offend fans from the UK nations.
- Reporting highlights FIFA’s close links to Trump, including a New York office in Trump Tower and Ivanka Trump’s role on a FIFA‑linked education board, which critics cite in questioning the prize and governance.