FIFA's Infantino is working hard to court Trump ahead of World Cup

About 30 minutes into Friday's World Cup draw at the Kennedy Center, a landmark that Donald Trump would like to rename for himself, the president was called onstage to receive an award from FIFA chief Gianni Infantino.

- KEVIN BAXTER

PRESIDENT TRUMP receives the FIFA Peace Prize from Gianni Infantino.

The so-called FIFA Peace Prize didn't exist five weeks ago. And when Infantino created it, there were never any candidates for the award beyond Trump, who has campaigned hard but unsuccessfully for a Nobel Peace Prize. That made Friday's presentation feel awkward and uncomfortable for just about everyone other than Infantino and Trump.

"You definitely deserve the first FIFA Peace Prize for your action, for what you have obtained in your way," Infantino said as Trump grabbed his medal and draped it around his own neck.

"This is truly one of the great honors of my life," Trump said.

For the two men the exchange was just the latest in a strange bromance that has deepened in equally beneficial ways as June's World Cup has drawn closer.

"It's two massive egos stroking each other," said a former U.S. Soccer official, who asked that their name not be used to avoid possible reprisal. "I assume Infantino's ulterior motive is to get the most possible support from the government and make sure Trump, despite some unhelpful comments, does nothing to interfere with the tournament.

"For Trump, the opportunity to claim credit for hosting the world's biggest sporting event in front of worldwide audience is irresistible." A FIFA spokesperson said Infantino must maintain collaborative relationships with host countries and noted he has forged strong bonds with Trump along with the leaders of Mexico and Canada.

"As per the FIFA Statutes, 'the President shall seek to maintain and develop good relations between and among FIFA, the confederations, member associations, political bodies and international organisations," " the FIFA statement read.