Australian international labels FIFA Peace Prize 'a mockery' ahead of World Cup

U. S. President Donald Trump was awarded the inaugural Peace Prize by FIFA President Gianni Infantino in December -Credit:Emilee Chinn - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images Australian national soccer team star Jackson Irvine has called out FIFA's Peace Prize, awarded to U.

S. President Donald Trump in December, whilst also voicing his concern for LGBTQI+ communities in America ahead of this summer’s World Cup. The 33-year-old, who currently plies his trade for Bundesliga side FC St.

Pauli, is not one to shy away from standing up for what he believes in, acting as not only the Professional Footballers Australia Co-President, but also as a member of FIFPRO’s Global Player Council. FIFA’s Peace Prize was announced by organization president Gianni Infantino in November 2025, just a month after his good friend Trump did not receive the Nobel Peace Prize he had been pushing for. In fact, FIFA’s Council was not even consulted prior to the announcement of the Peace Prize, as per The Athletic .

Australia's Jackson Irvine believes the Peace Prize 'makes a mockery of what they're trying to do with the human rights charter' -Credit:Adam Hunger/Getty Images for Soccer Australia In a press release at the time, Infantino wrote, “In an increasingly unsettled and divided world, it’s fundamental to recognise the outstanding contribution of those who work hard to end conflicts and bring people together in a spirit of peace. “Football stands for peace, and on behalf of the entire global football community, the FIFA Peace Prize – Football Unites the World will recognise the enormous efforts of those individuals who unite people, bringing hope for future generations. ” The inaugural recipient, Trump was awarded a trophy and medal by Infantino at the beginning of the World Cup draw in December, ahead of this summer’s tournament in the U.