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15h ago

European Delegates Stage Walkout at FIFA Congress Over Infantino’s Delayed Arrival

Gianni Infantino apologizes for flight delays after accompanying Donald Trump on a Middle East trip, prompting European officials to protest his absence and perceived priorities.

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Overview

  • The FIFA Congress in Asunción began over three hours late due to Gianni Infantino's delayed arrival following a trip with Donald Trump to Saudi Arabia and Qatar.
  • European Council members, including UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin and DFB President Bernd Neuendorf, left the Congress in protest after a coffee break, citing dissatisfaction with Infantino's behavior and priorities.
  • Infantino apologized for the delay, attributing it to flight issues, and defended his prior engagements as necessary for representing FIFA's interests.
  • The walkout underscores growing tensions between FIFA leadership and European officials, who criticized the disruption to governance processes and questioned Infantino's decision-making.
  • Infantino reassured attendees that the upcoming Club World Cup and 2026 World Cup in the U.S. would be inclusive, with clear visa policies for fans, despite concerns over U.S. immigration policies.