Courtesy: FIFA
At the recent FIFA Congress in Asuncion, Paraguay, tensions escalated between UEFA and FIFA President Gianni Infantino. Infantino's delayed arrival, over three hours late, was attributed to his attendance on a Middle East tour with current U.S. President Donald Trump. This postponement disrupted the congress's schedule, prompting a protest walkout by several European delegates, including UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin and Football Association Chair Debbie Hewitt. UEFA criticised Infantino for prioritising personal political engagements over football governance, viewing the delay as part of a broader pattern of disrespect towards football institutions.
The incident has intensified existing tensions between UEFA and FIFA, highlighting ongoing concerns over leadership conduct and governance priorities within global football administration. Norwegian FA President Lise Klaveness, known for advocating migrant workers’ rights, also joined the walkout, emphasising the need for transparent and respectful leadership. While Infantino defended his actions, stating his responsibility to represent football globally, the episode underscores the growing divide between FIFA's leadership and some of its key member associations.
The world is welcome in America: FIFA President Gianni Infantino extends warm welcome to footballs fans for upcoming FIFA events
Talking about the Congress event itself, several key matters pertaining to the footballing world were discussed including the issue of racism in football, physical and verbal violence against referees amongst other topics. Along with all this, FIFA President Gianni Infantino also spoke about two big upcoming FIFA events including the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup and the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Infantino highlighted how America will be hosting both of these events, marking a fabulous global spectacle of the sport.
He also welcomed all the people from around the world to come and experience the magic of this sports with their own eyes. He said, “The world is welcome in America… and let’s be clear about that. This doesn’t come from me, this comes from the American government.” The FIFA President has also been instrumental in leading certain big decisions like the upcoming expansion of the Women’s World Cup to 48 teams in recent times.
