The Global Story The Fifa-Trump bromance
Dec 5, 2025
Dan Roan, BBC sports editor and expert on FIFA politics, delves into the implications of Gianni Infantino awarding Donald Trump the FIFA Peace Prize. They discuss the unique challenges of the 2026 World Cup, including Trump's influence and possible disruptions to the tournament. Roan highlights FIFA's growing political entanglements, controversies over visa policies, and concerns from host countries. He explores how this alliance may test FIFA's neutrality and what it means for football and global diplomacy.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
FIFA Peace Prize Blurs Sport And Politics
- FIFA is awarding a newly created Peace Prize likely to Donald Trump at the 2026 World Cup draw.
- The prize blurs lines between sport and politics and raises questions about FIFA's neutrality.
FIFA President's Diplomatic Role
- The FIFA president acts as a global diplomat and often aligns with powerful leaders to advance football's interests.
- Infantino has a pattern of close ties with controversial leaders including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Russia, and now the US.
How Infantino And Trump Became Close
- Gianni Infantino and Donald Trump began cultivating a public friendship after both rose to power in 2016.
- Infantino visited the White House and later attended Trump's 2025 inauguration, signaling a close personal alliance.