The first winner will be announced this Friday, December 5, during the draw for the 2026 World Cup in Washington, an event eagerly watched by millions of football fans around the world, writes Goal.com.
The draw at the Kennedy Center will reveal the group-by-group schedule for the biggest sporting spectacle on the planet, which will take place in the United States, Canada and Mexico. However, this year’s ceremony will be different precisely because of the introduction of the annual award called “FIFA Peace Prize – Football unites the world”.
What is the FIFA Peace Prize?
The award was created to celebrate individuals who have taken “extraordinary and extraordinary actions for peace” and “united people around the world”. FIFA President Gianni Infantino will present it to the first winner during the draw ceremony.
“In an increasingly troubled and divided world, it is crucial to recognize the extraordinary contribution of those who work diligently to end conflict and bring people together in a spirit of peace,” Infantino said in a FIFA statement.
He emphasized that football “represents peace” and that the award will recognize “the tremendous efforts of those individuals who unite people, bringing hope to future generations.”
Speculation about the first winner
FIFA has not yet revealed how the candidates will be evaluated, who can nominate them or who will sit on the jury. All details about the selection process are being kept strictly confidential for now, Index.hr writes.
What is known is that a high-profile event is expected in Washington, which should be attended by US President Donald Trump. His close relationship with FIFA president Gianni Infantino, who has visited him at the White House on several occasions, has fueled speculation.
Many informed sources expect that it will be Trump who will be announced as the first recipient of the Peace Prize. He has positioned the 2026 World Cup as a key moment in his second term and the centerpiece of next year’s celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States’ independence.
Return to the summer term for WC 2026.
The 2026 World Cup is scheduled to begin on Thursday, June 11, 2026, returning the tournament to its classic summer schedule. The final is scheduled for July 19. In contrast, the 2022 World Cup was held in winter to avoid the extreme summer heat in Qatar, which was deemed too dangerous for players and fans.
(Vijesti.ba)
