Jackson Irvine criticises Trump FIFA peace prize

Published: 29 April 2026. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online

Australia international Jackson Irvine has launched a scathing critique of world football’s governing body after its decision to award a controversial peace prize to Donald Trump, warning that the move risks undermining the credibility of the sport on the global stage.

The midfielder, who captains German club FC St. Pauli and is expected to feature in his third World Cup for the Socceroos, described the decision by FIFA as a “mockery” of its stated commitment to human rights and social responsibility. His comments come at a sensitive moment for the sport, as preparations intensify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Speaking publicly, Irvine argued that awarding such recognition contradicts football’s long-standing ambition to act as a force for unity and positive change. He suggested that decisions of this nature risk widening the growing disconnect between the sport’s leadership and its grassroots community.

“As an organisation, you would have to say decisions like this make a mockery of what they are trying to do,” Irvine said, referring to FIFA’s human rights charter and its efforts to position football as a platform for global good.

The award, presented earlier this year during a high-profile event, was defended by FIFA president Gianni Infantino, who credited Trump’s diplomatic efforts in brokering a ceasefire in the Middle East. Infantino described the decision as “objective,” insisting the former US president’s actions justified the recognition.

However, Irvine’s remarks highlight a growing unease among players and fans alike about the intersection of politics and sport. The build-up to the 2026 tournament has already been overshadowed by concerns over rising ticket prices, logistical challenges and geopolitical tensions, particularly in relation to conflicts involving Iran and other regions.

For Irvine, the issue goes beyond a single award. He warned that such decisions could erode public trust in football’s governing institutions, particularly at a time when the sport is striving to demonstrate its relevance in addressing global challenges.

“Decisions like this set us back,” he said, adding that they reinforce perceptions that elite football is becoming increasingly detached from the communities it represents.

A vocal advocate for social issues, Irvine has previously used his platform to highlight concerns around human rights. During the 2022 FIFA World Cup, he joined fellow Australian players in raising awareness about the treatment of migrant workers and restrictions on LGBTQ+ rights in host nation Qatar.

This time, his concerns extend to the United States, where the upcoming tournament will be primarily staged. Irvine pointed to what he described as a growing rollback of rights affecting LGBTQ+ communities, urging football authorities and players to show visible support.

“It’s not just an issue in one region,” he said. “We’re seeing challenges to these rights in many parts of the world, including the US.”

The debate also touches on whether players will be permitted to express social or political messages during matches, such as wearing armbands in support of various causes. FIFA has yet to clarify its stance on such expressions for the 2026 tournament, leaving players uncertain about how far they can go in using their platform.

Irvine acknowledged the increasingly polarised environment surrounding such issues, noting that while some fans welcome players speaking out, others strongly oppose the blending of sport and politics. Despite this, he maintained that footballers have a responsibility to engage with issues that affect communities worldwide.

His comments have added fresh momentum to an ongoing conversation about the role of sport in society. As football continues to expand its global reach, the expectations placed on governing bodies and athletes alike are evolving, with greater scrutiny on decisions that carry political or ethical implications.

With the World Cup approaching, Irvine’s intervention underscores the challenges facing FIFA as it seeks to balance commercial interests, political realities and its stated mission of promoting unity through sport. Whether the governing body will respond to such criticism remains to be seen, but the debate is unlikely to fade anytime soon.