Kate Laurensen is a veteran reporter. She started out covering entertainment news for the local city paper before moving up to the City desk. She studied journalism at San Francisco City College for the Arts.
December 6 , 2025
Zurich - The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) presented U.S. President Donald J. Trump with a participation trophy, recognizing what the organization described as his “outstanding display of team spirit and enthusiasm for international cooperation.”
The award, shaped like a miniature World Cup, was given as part of FIFA’s annual “Global Fair Play” event, which honors individuals and organizations that demonstrate sportsmanship, diplomacy, or efforts to support global unity through sports. A FIFA spokesperson stated that the decision to honor Trump was based on his “ever-persistent engagement in the global arena, often with the energy of a player deeply committed to the game.”
On social media, Trump expressed appreciation for the recognition. “It’s a terrific trophy—beautiful, very shiny,” he said. “People are saying it’s one of the best participation trophies ever given. I’m proud to have played a big part in making sports great again.”
While the award does not carry any formal status within the organization, FIFA officials described it as a “celebration of participation over competition.” The spokesperson concluded, “In global sports, every participant matters — whether on the field or in the headlines.”
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