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Infantino Defends 2026 World Cup Amid Boycott Calls

Published: 2026/01/27 10:45:56

FIFA President Reaffirms Commitment to Joint Tournament

FIFA president Gianni ‍Infantino defended the decision to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup jointly in the United States, Mexico, and canada, despite growing calls⁤ for a boycott. These calls stem ⁤from concerns over the anti-immigration policies of the U.S. government. Infantino made the remarks on Monday in Brasilia following a meeting with Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.

“I look to the future, and for me, the most important thing in these types of football events, like ‍the Women’s or Men’s World Cup, is to unite people and countries around the world,” Infantino ‍stated.

Record-Breaking Ticket Demand

Infantino highlighted the unprecedented demand for tickets, exceeding 500 million requests. This demonstrates significant public interest in attending the tournament. He emphasized that “people want to ⁣go ‍and they will go and celebrate together. We always, always celebrate football together.”

Response to Boycott Suggestions

Infantino addressed a recent social media post by former FIFA President Joseph Blatter, who advised fans to “stay away from the United States.” He also referenced concerns raised by Oke Göttlich, a director at the German Football Association and ⁣president of FC St. Pauli, who supported considering a boycott due to threats made by former U.S. President Donald Trump towards the European union⁣ and⁣ his expansionist policies.

Infantino, who has met with Donald Trump on several occasions – including receiving a recognition award for “his⁣ contribution to world peace” – underscored⁣ the importance of