The 2026 World Cup draw happens this Friday, and all eyes are on Washington DC. It's not just football fans who are interested – the political world is watching too. Why? Because Donald Trump will be there, and he might even walk away with FIFA's brand new peace prize.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino has been very public about his friendship with Trump lately. "I have a great relationship with President Trump, who I consider really a close friend," Infantino said recently. He even praised Trump's energy and directness, saying Trump "does what he says" and "says what many people think."
This friendship makes sense on paper. The US will host most matches in 2026, with Canada and Mexico getting a smaller share. Infantino needs Trump's cooperation for a successful tournament.
A Friendship of Convenience?
According to Sylvia Schenk, who worked on FIFA's Human Rights Advisory Board, this relationship is purely practical. "If the World Cup weren't happening in the US, Trump wouldn't be bothered about Infantino," she told DW. "Infantino needs a good tournament next year."
Schenk believes the two men share similar traits. "They are both vain and both want to be flattered and both have a very, very, very big ego," she said. This might explain their seemingly natural alliance.
The introduction of a FIFA Peace Prize has raised eyebrows across the football world. Trump recently missed out on the Nobel Peace Prize, and now FIFA has created its own version just in time for Friday's draw. Many speculate Trump will be the first recipient.
This move calls into question FIFA's political neutrality. Under Infantino, FIFA has stressed staying out of politics while demanding certain human rights standards from its member associations.
Potential Tournament Disruptions
Trump's policies are already affecting World Cup preparations. Iran won't send representatives to the draw due to visa concerns. Both Iran and Haiti are on Trump's travel ban list, meaning their fans can't attend matches in the US.
More controversially, Trump has threatened to move matches away from Democrat-controlled cities if he perceives security risks. This could force Infantino to take a stand against his "friend."
For bettors looking ahead to 2026, these political tensions create uncertainty. Tournament logistics could change significantly, potentially affecting team performance and home advantage calculations.
The true nature of Trump and Infantino's relationship will be tested in the six months leading up to the tournament opener in Mexico City on June 11. Whether genuine friendship or mutual convenience, it's a partnership that could shape the biggest World Cup in history.
