Key Takeaways
- Jackson Irvine says FIFA’s peace prize for Donald Trump makes a ‘mockery’ of the sport’s human rights values.
- FIFA President Gianni Infantino defended the award, citing Trump’s role in Middle East ceasefire negotiations.
- The Socceroos star raised concerns about LGBTI+ rights in the US ahead of this summer’s World Cup.
Australian midfielder Jackson Irvine has publicly condemned FIFA for presenting its first-ever peace prize to United States President Donald Trump. The 33-year-old captain of German club FC St. Pauli claims the decision damages football’s reputation as a tool for positive global change.
The award was given to Trump in December during the World Cup draw ceremony. FIFA President Gianni Infantino defended the choice, stating the US leader deserved recognition for helping secure a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. However, Irvine argues this contradicts FIFA’s own human rights charter.
“Decisions like this make a mockery of what football is trying to achieve,” Irvine told Reuters. He added that such actions show how disconnected the top level of the game has become from grassroots communities and social values.
The White House strongly disagreed with Irvine’s view. A spokesperson stated that no one deserved the honour more than President Trump. They also claimed that anyone who opposed the decision suffered from “Trump Derangement Syndrome.”
Irvine’s comments highlight growing tensions before this year’s World Cup. Supporters have already expressed anger over expensive ticket prices and transport costs. Additionally, the tournament faces complex political challenges, including Iran’s participation amid ongoing regional conflicts.
The Socceroos veteran also expressed worry about human rights within the United States. He noted that LGBTI+ communities across America are seeing their rights reduced. He hopes players will feel able to show support for these groups during the tournament.
FIFA has not yet announced whether players may wear armbands backing social causes at the World Cup. Irvine said he understands why some footballers choose to stay silent, as speaking out now creates strong divisions among fans.
This is not Irvine’s first stand on human rights issues. Before the 2022 Qatar World Cup, he joined teammates in criticising the treatment of migrant workers and restrictions on LGBTI+ people in that country.
Despite currently battling relegation with FC St. Pauli in the Bundesliga, Irvine expects to join the Australian squad for his third World Cup appearance. He recently returned from a foot injury.