The Norwegian Nobel Committee has clarified that the Nobel Peace Prize remains permanently tied to the original recipient, even if the physical medal or diploma changes hands. The statement from Oslo follows an unusual event in which Venezuelan opposition leader Mar&iacute;a Corina Machado presented her 2025 Nobel Peace Prize medal to former US President Donald Trump during a White House meeting.
Machado, who was awarded the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize for her work promoting democratic rights and a peaceful transition from dictatorship in Venezuela, personally handed over the gold medal to Trump as a symbolic gesture. Trump accepted the medal and described the act as a &ldquo;gesture of mutual respect.&rdquo;
Despite this transfer of the physical medal, the Nobel Committee emphasised that the official honour cannot be shared, transferred, or revoked. The Committee noted that Nobel laureates are free to give away, sell, or donate their medals, but the title and historical record of the prize remain with the person to whom it was originally awarded. This rule is rooted in the statutes of the Nobel Foundation, which make clear that awards are final and unalterable once announced.&nbsp;
The clarification was issued amid debate in Norway and internationally about the unusual gesture. The Nobel Committee also stated it does not comment on laureates&rsquo; personal actions after receiving the prize.

Nobel Committee says medal may change hands, but the award stays with Machado

Nobel Peace Prize Tied to Original Winner

Nobel Committee says medal may change hands, but the award stays with Machado

January 17, 2026 | 06:05 IST