Australia midfielder Jackson Irvine has condemned Fifa's decision to award a peace prize to US President Donald Trump, saying it undermines football's role as a force for good. The St Pauli captain, who is on track for his third World Cup, told Reuters the move makes a 'mockery' of the governing body's human rights commitments.
Irvine, a member of global players' union Fifpro, said the award sets back efforts to use football for positive change. 'Decisions like this feel like they just set us back in the perceived market of what football currently is,' he said, adding that the sport is becoming disconnected from society.
Fifa president Gianni Infantino defended the prize in February, citing Trump's role in securing a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. 'Objectively, he deserves it,' Infantino said. White House spokesperson Davis Ingle said Trump was the most deserving recipient, accusing critics of 'Trump Derangement Syndrome'.
Irvine's comments add to tensions ahead of the World Cup, which has faced criticism over ticket prices and human rights concerns in the US. He also expressed worries for LGBTI+ communities in America, noting that rights are being eroded across the country.
The 33-year-old has a history of speaking out on human rights, having issued a statement with Socceroos teammates during the 2022 Qatar World Cup about migrant workers and LGBTI+ rights. He said players face a polarised environment, with some supportive of their activism and others opposed to bringing politics into sport.
