Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Sport
Miguel Delaney

FIFA boss accused of disrespect following Trump visit

  • FIFA president Gianni Infantino's late arrival to the FIFA Congress, due to a trip with Donald Trump to the Middle East, sparked a walkout by UEFA delegates, including FA chair Debbie Hewitt.
  • UEFA accused Infantino of prioritising "private political interests" over the game, citing last-minute schedule changes to accommodate his trip with Trump and meetings with leaders in the UAE, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia.
  • The walkout, led by UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin, left rows of empty seats during Infantino's address, highlighting the growing unrest within European football administration concerning FIFA's direction under Infantino.
  • Infantino defended his trip as essential for representing football in discussions with world leaders, particularly regarding the 2026 and 2034 World Cups.
  • The incident underscores tensions within FIFA and raises questions about Infantino's leadership and the influence of political agendas on the organisation.

IN FULL

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.