Overview
- In a Sky News interview, FIFA president Gianni Infantino said President Donald Trump "objectively" deserved the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize, crediting him with helping resolve conflicts and save lives.
- Infantino said FIFA should look to lift Russia’s suspension, at least for youth teams, arguing the ban has achieved nothing and fuels frustration and hatred, with UEFA’s executive committee set to meet later this month.
- He rejected calls to boycott the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico, insisting bans and boycotts do not bring positive outcomes.
- Infantino apologized for a Davos joke about British supporters’ arrests, calling it a light‑hearted remark that misfired and praising efforts to curb football violence.
- Ukrainian officials condemned his stance on Russia, with Sports Minister Matvii Bidnyi calling his words irresponsible and the foreign minister denouncing the idea of readmission while the war continues.