FIFA President Gianni Infantino has recently defended his close ties with former U.S. President Donald Trump, calling it essential for the success of upcoming World Cup events. Infantino’s comments came after he attended a speech by Trump in Miami, where the former president made controversial remarks about Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Despite the heated political climate, Infantino praised Trump for promoting a message of "peace and unity."
During his visit to Northern Ireland for FIFA meetings, Infantino emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong relationship with the U.S. president, especially with major FIFA events like the new 32-team men’s Club World Cup set to take place in the U.S. this summer and the expanded 48-team men’s World Cup in 2026. He stated, "I think it is absolutely crucial for the success of a World Cup to have a close relationship with the president."
Infantino’s remarks come amid ongoing discussions about FIFA’s policies, including its stance on diversity and inclusion. While he avoided questions about Trump’s ban on diversity initiatives, he expressed optimism about the future of international football. He hinted at the possibility of Russia returning to FIFA after being banned due to its invasion of Ukraine, saying, "We want to have all the countries playing."
Infantino also touched on FIFA’s commitment to uniting the world through football. He noted that the organization aims to bring football to every corner of the globe, highlighting the importance of inclusivity in the sport. "Football is the game of everyone. Everyone loves football. It’s the number one sport in the world," he said.
As FIFA prepares for significant events in the coming years, Infantino’s alliance with Trump has drawn mixed reactions. Critics question the implications of such a partnership, especially given Trump’s controversial policies. Nonetheless, Infantino remains focused on the broader mission of promoting football worldwide.
In summary, Infantino’s defense of his relationship with Trump underscores the complex intersection of sports and politics. With the World Cup on the horizon, the FIFA president is making clear that strong ties with political leaders are key to the success of international sporting events.