FIFA boss accused of disrespect following Trump visit

PoliticsFootball
16 May 2025 • 9:34 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • 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.

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