FIFA chief Gianni Infantino insisted on Monday (Jul 6) that the governing body’s disciplinary process was independent amid widespread criticism of the bombshell decision to lift US World Cup star Folarin Balogun’s suspension following Donald Trump’s intervention. After US President Trump admitted contacting Infantino about reviewing Balogun’s red-card foul, Infantino confirmed that FIFA’s judicial bodies took the decision and that the case would be decided in due course.&nbsp;Balogun’s red-card fiasco has become the headline worldwide, with Trump and Infantino providing statements hours before their Round of 16 match against Belgium at the FIFA World Cup 2026.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jurgen-klopp-blasts-us-president-donald-trump-fifa-chief-gianni-infantino-folarin-balogun-world-cup-ban-suspension-1783338252488">Jurgen Klopp blasts 'clueless' Trump and Infantino for lifting Balogun World Cup ban</a> &nbsp;"I explained that there was an ongoing legal process involving FIFA's independent judicial bodies and that the case would be decided in due course by the competent bodies," Infantino said in a statement. &nbsp;US President Trump also confirmed in the press briefing that he called Infantino, with whom he has built a close relationship, "because I didn't think it was a foul". &nbsp;"All I did was ask for a review; I didn't say you have to do this," Trump added.

USA vs Belgium at World Cup 2026

Meanwhile, Balogun received a straight red card following a video review for stepping on a Bosnia-Herzegovina defender's foot in the round-of-32 match that the US won 2-0. Under FIFA rules, a straight red card automatically triggers a one-game ban. However, FIFA said the ban will now be suspended for a year, in a decision that sparked widespread condemnation from the football world. Belgium coach Rudi Garcia said he thought it was an April Fool's joke, while Norway's coach Stale Solbakken said it was "a big mistake" by FIFA. &nbsp;Infantino added that he often discussed events at the World Cup with Trump. &nbsp;"I regularly discuss matters related to the FIFA World Cup with the President of the United States, and on this matter, I did receive a call from President Donald Trump," he said. "Just as I receive calls from heads of state, government officials, football stakeholders and business executives from around the world on many different issues." &nbsp;Infantino said he always read the decisions handed down and "sometimes I am surprised by them. Sometimes I agree with them, and sometimes I disagree". &nbsp;“What I always do, however, is respect those decisions and the autonomy of the bodies that make them," he said.&nbsp;(With inputs from AFP)

Gianni Infantino defends FIFA’s independence following backlash over a bombshell decision to lift US star Folarin Balogun’s red-card suspension after a call from Donald Trump.

FIFA chief Gianni Infantino insisted on Monday (Jul 6) that the governing body’s disciplinary process was independent amid widespread criticism of the bombshell decision to lift US World Cup star Folarin Balogun’s suspension following Donald Trump’s intervention. After US President Trump admitted contacting Infantino about reviewing Balogun’s red-card foul, Infantino confirmed that FIFA’s judicial bodies took the decision and that the case would be decided in due course. Balogun’s red-card fiasco has become the headline worldwide, with Trump and Infantino providing statements hours before their Round of 16 match against Belgium at the FIFA World Cup 2026. Also read| Jurgen Klopp blasts 'clueless' Trump and Infantino for lifting Balogun World Cup ban "I explained that there was an ongoing legal process involving FIFA's independent judicial bodies and that the case would be decided in due course by the competent bodies," Infantino said in a statement. US President Trump also confirmed in the press briefing that he called Infantino, with whom he has built a close relationship, "because I didn't think it was a foul". "All I did was ask for a review; I didn't say you have to do this," Trump added.

Gianni Infantino defends FIFA’s independence following backlash over a bombshell decision to lift US star Folarin Balogun’s red-card suspension after a call from Donald Trump.

Gianni Infantino insists FIFA ‘Independent’ after Donald Trump's call to lift Balogun ban

FIFA is considering a symbolic fixture between Israel and Palestine as the inaugural match of a new global Under-15 tournament scheduled to take place in the United States this September. While the event is not being branded as an official Under-15 World Cup, it will be open to all 211 FIFA member associations, including Russia, whose senior national teams continue to be suspended from international competition.&nbsp;The tournament was unveiled by FIFA in December and the organisation is reportedly planning a high-profile opening encounter. FIFA president Gianni Infantino has often said that football can help bring people together and promote peace and understanding between countries. An Israel-Palestine match could reflect that idea.&nbsp;Infantino’s efforts to encourage cooperation between the two football associations faced a setback during FIFA’s Congress in Vancouver in April.&nbsp;&nbsp;An attempt to arrange a public handshake between representatives from Palestine and Israel did not succeed when Palestinian Football Association president Jibril Rajoub declined to stand alongside Israel Football Association vice-president Basim Sheikh Suliman, despite repeated appeals from the FIFA president.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/history-repeats-after-68-years-fifa-world-cup-2026-sees-four-draws-in-a-single-day-1781614027582">History repeats after 68 years: FIFA World Cup 2026 sees four draws in a single day</a>&nbsp;This experience does not seem to have stopped Gianni Infantino from trying to act as a peacemaker. Sources also indicate that a proposal to have Israel and Palestine contest the opening match of the Under-15 competition remains under active discussion.&nbsp;Although the host venue has yet to be officially announced, Miami is widely viewed as the leading candidate, particularly given FIFA’s significant operational presence in the city.&nbsp;The inaugural edition will feature boys’ teams, with a corresponding girls’ tournament expected to follow the next year. FIFA ultimately intends to establish separate annual boys’ and girls’ festivals beginning in 2028.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ecstasy-all-over-what-happened-the-last-time-lionel-messi-featured-in-a-fifa-world-cup-game-argentina-beat-france-in-qatar-1781609262272">What happened the last time Messi featured in a FIFA World Cup game?</a>&nbsp;Addressing delegates, Infantino emphasised that both Israel and Palestine are equal members of FIFA, sharing the same rights and responsibilities.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Let me thank the two representatives from Israel and from Palestine, who have the same rights, duties and obligations, who are members of Fifa,” Infantino said. “We will work together, let’s work together to give hope to the children, let’s work together for that.&nbsp;“We have a beautiful under‑15 tournament coming up, where we will invite all 211 countries to participate, all the children of the world, let’s do it for that. Let’s work together. You have my commitment, you have the support of the whole room.”

FIFA is reportedly planning an Israel-Palestine match as the opening fixture of its new Under-15 youth football festival, scheduled to take place in the United States in September.

FIFA is considering a symbolic fixture between Israel and Palestine as the inaugural match of a new global Under-15 tournament scheduled to take place in the United States this September. While the event is not being branded as an official Under-15 World Cup, it will be open to all 211 FIFA member associations, including Russia, whose senior national teams continue to be suspended from international competition. The tournament was unveiled by FIFA in December and the organisation is reportedly planning a high-profile opening encounter. FIFA president Gianni Infantino has often said that football can help bring people together and promote peace and understanding between countries. An Israel-Palestine match could reflect that idea. Infantino’s efforts to encourage cooperation between the two football associations faced a setback during FIFA’s Congress in Vancouver in April. An attempt to arrange a public handshake between representatives from Palestine and Israel did not succeed when Palestinian Football Association president Jibril Rajoub declined to stand alongside Israel Football Association vice-president Basim Sheikh Suliman, despite repeated appeals from the FIFA president. Also Read - History repeats after 68 years: FIFA World Cup 2026 sees four draws in a single day This experience does not seem to have stopped Gianni Infantino from trying to act as a peacemaker. Sources also indicate that a proposal to have Israel and Palestine contest the opening match of the Under-15 competition remains under active discussion. Although the host venue has yet to be officially announced, Miami is widely viewed as the leading candidate, particularly given FIFA’s significant operational presence in the city. The inaugural edition will feature boys’ teams, with a corresponding girls’ tournament expected to follow the next year. FIFA ultimately intends to establish separate annual boys’ and girls’ festivals beginning in 2028. Also Read - What happened the last time Messi featured in a FIFA World Cup game? Addressing delegates, Infantino emphasised that both Israel and Palestine are equal members of FIFA, sharing the same rights and responsibilities. “Let me thank the two representatives from Israel and from Palestine, who have the same rights, duties and obligations, who are members of Fifa,” Infantino said. “We will work together, let’s work together to give hope to the children, let’s work together for that. “We have a beautiful under‑15 tournament coming up, where we will invite all 211 countries to participate, all the children of the world, let’s do it for that. Let’s work together. You have my commitment, you have the support of the whole room.”

FIFA is reportedly planning an Israel-Palestine match as the opening fixture of its new Under-15 youth football festival, scheduled to take place in the United States in September.

FIFA plans Israel-Palestine opener for new U-15 tournament

FIFA President Gianni Infantino brushed off criticism over World Cup visa issues and sky-high ticket prices on Wednesday in a defiant eve-of-tournament press conference. Speaking in Mexico City ahead of the World Cup's opening game at the Estadio Azteca on Thursday, Infantino launched a spirited defense of the organisation of the 48-team extravaganza being co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada. Infantino and FIFA have come in for stinging criticism over the eye-watering costs of World Cup tickets while Donald Trump's immigration crackdown has seen a top referee, Iranian team officials and fans refused entry to the United States.Infantino insisted that tickets to the tournament -- which in some cases have topped $30,000 -- had been priced appropriately, citing a small number of $60 tickets that were made available in response to criticism."Let me just say that our entry price, which is 60 dollars, is the lowest entry price of any of the American sports in the play-off phases," Infantino said."Our average price which is below 500 dollars is again the lowest of the American sports on average."<h2>'Unfortunate' Somali</h2>Infantino also played down the controversy surrounding Somali World Cup referee Omar Artan, who was refused entry to the United States after arriving in Miami last Saturday following security concerns raised by US immigration authorities.FIFA has since confirmed Artan, who the US State Department later said had "associated with suspected members of terrorist organizations," will play no part in the tournament."It is unfortunate what happened to the referee from Somalia," Infantino said."We don't control everything... Sometimes it's good to chill, relax, we work on everything, we try to solve everything."Sometimes to immediately start screaming and shouting has the opposite effect of finding a solution."The FIFA leader also portrayed Iran's participation at the World Cup in the midst of its military conflict with the US as a victory for his organization."People were saying Iran couldn't come to the World Cup," Infantino said. "There are challenges, it's not easy, but I don't know who else would have been able to ensure in these circumstances -- which we could not influence -- Iran could come and play."Infantino's close relationship with US President Trump has also come under scrutiny in the build-up to the tournament.But Infantino maintained Trump had played a critical role in World Cup preparations."Without his engagement and involvement, I think it would have been, simple as that, impossible to organise a World Cup in the United States," Infantino said of Trump.In Washington on Wednesday, Trump confirmed he plans to attend some World Cup matches, without providing details."I spoke to Gianni this morning... he said there's never been anything close" to the success of the coming tournament, the US leader said.Meanwhile, concerns remained that Thursday's opener between hosts Mexico and South Africa in Mexico City could be disrupted by social unrest.Protesters Tuesday blocked an avenue leading to the Estadio Azteca although lines of police prevented the demonstrators from reaching the stadium.Thousands took part in the demonstration following a week of action that Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has called a "provocation."Sheinbaum insisted Wednesday that "everything is under control" for the curtainraiser.<h2>Weather disruption</h2>The spectre of Mother Nature disrupting the tournament also reared up on Wednesday, with England's final World Cup warm-up game against Costa Rica delayed after a thunderstorm hit Orlando, Florida.Torrential rain and lightning flashes forced the kick-off to be delayed, echoing the problems that marred last year's Club World Cup, where several games were disrupted by weather.When the action started, England eased to a 3-0 win with new Barcelona signing Anthony Gordon starring with a goal and an assist, making his case for a starting spot for his side's World Cup opener against Croatia on June 17.Portugal wrapped up their preparations by beating Nigeria 2–1, with goals from Pedro Neto and Francisco Conceicao making up for an off night for Cristiano Ronaldo.

Infantino insisted that tickets to the tournament -- which in some cases have topped $30,000 -- had been priced appropriately, citing a small number of $60 tickets that were made available in response to criticism.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino brushed off criticism over World Cup visa issues and sky-high ticket prices on Wednesday in a defiant eve-of-tournament press conference. Speaking in Mexico City ahead of the World Cup's opening game at the Estadio Azteca on Thursday, Infantino launched a spirited defense of the organisation of the 48-team extravaganza being co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada. Infantino and FIFA have come in for stinging criticism over the eye-watering costs of World Cup tickets while Donald Trump's immigration crackdown has seen a top referee, Iranian team officials and fans refused entry to the United States. Infantino insisted that tickets to the tournament -- which in some cases have topped $30,000 -- had been priced appropriately, citing a small number of $60 tickets that were made available in response to criticism. "Let me just say that our entry price, which is 60 dollars, is the lowest entry price of any of the American sports in the play-off phases," Infantino said. "Our average price which is below 500 dollars is again the lowest of the American sports on average." 'Unfortunate' Somali Infantino also played down the controversy surrounding Somali World Cup referee Omar Artan, who was refused entry to the United States after arriving in Miami last Saturday following security concerns raised by US immigration authorities. FIFA has since confirmed Artan, who the US State Department later said had "associated with suspected members of terrorist organizations," will play no part in the tournament. "It is unfortunate what happened to the referee from Somalia," Infantino said. "We don't control everything... Sometimes it's good to chill, relax, we work on everything, we try to solve everything. "Sometimes to immediately start screaming and shouting has the opposite effect of finding a solution." The FIFA leader also portrayed Iran's participation at the World Cup in the midst of its military conflict with the US as a victory for his organization. "People were saying Iran couldn't come to the World Cup," Infantino said. "There are challenges, it's not easy, but I don't know who else would have been able to ensure in these circumstances -- which we could not influence -- Iran could come and play." Infantino's close relationship with US President Trump has also come under scrutiny in the build-up to the tournament. But Infantino maintained Trump had played a critical role in World Cup preparations. "Without his engagement and involvement, I think it would have been, simple as that, impossible to organise a World Cup in the United States," Infantino said of Trump. In Washington on Wednesday, Trump confirmed he plans to attend some World Cup matches, without providing details. "I spoke to Gianni this morning... he said there's never been anything close" to the success of the coming tournament, the US leader said. Meanwhile, concerns remained that Thursday's opener between hosts Mexico and South Africa in Mexico City could be disrupted by social unrest. Protesters Tuesday blocked an avenue leading to the Estadio Azteca although lines of police prevented the demonstrators from reaching the stadium. Thousands took part in the demonstration following a week of action that Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has called a "provocation." Sheinbaum insisted Wednesday that "everything is under control" for the curtainraiser. Weather disruption The spectre of Mother Nature disrupting the tournament also reared up on Wednesday, with England's final World Cup warm-up game against Costa Rica delayed after a thunderstorm hit Orlando, Florida. Torrential rain and lightning flashes forced the kick-off to be delayed, echoing the problems that marred last year's Club World Cup, where several games were disrupted by weather. When the action started, England eased to a 3-0 win with new Barcelona signing Anthony Gordon starring with a goal and an assist, making his case for a starting spot for his side's World Cup opener against Croatia on June 17. Portugal wrapped up their preparations by beating Nigeria 2–1, with goals from Pedro Neto and Francisco Conceicao making up for an off night for Cristiano Ronaldo.

Infantino insisted that tickets to the tournament -- which in some cases have topped $30,000 -- had been priced appropriately, citing a small number of $60 tickets that were made available in response to criticism.

FIFA 2026 | Gianni Infantino defends exorbitant ticket prices and asks to 'chill sometimes' over visa row

FIFA chief Gianni Infantino has defended the high prices of upcoming Football World Cup 2026 which starts June 11 in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. The fans across the globe are accusing FIFA of betrayal over high prices of tickets which Infantino says are as per the US market. FIFA is also reselling tickets through its official platform and some of the tickets of the final are prices at a whopping $2.3 million. Infantino, attending an event in the USA on Tuesday (May 5) laughed off the prices with a cheeky remark which involved him getting the patron a hot dog and a coke for buying a $2 million ticket to the FIFA World Cup final on July 19.<h2>FIFA chief Infantino defends high resale prices of WC tickets</h2>Speaking at Milken Institute Global Conference in Beverly Hills, California, Infantino addresses the concerns regarding high prices of tickets especially on resale, and said: "If some people put on the resale market some tickets for the final at $2 million, No. 1, it doesn't mean that the tickets cost $2 million, and No. 2, it doesn't mean that somebody will buy these tickets. And if somebody buys a ticket for the final for $2 million, I will personally bring a hot dog and a Coke to make sure that he has a great experience."Notably, FIFA charges 15 per cent each from the buyer and seller as purchase and selling fee on its official resale platform.<h2>Infantino says ticket prices are as per US market</h2>Other than being sold on resale platform, FIFA's prices for World Cup tickets have generally drawn criticism from the fans. Infantino, while saying that the prices are as per US market, says that money from tickets is used in making the sport stronger at grass root level across the world. Tickets for most group games of FIFA World Cup are priced in range of $380 to $4,105."We have to look at the market," Infantino said. "We are in the market in which entertainment is the most developed in the world, so we have to apply market rates."

FIFA is also reselling tickets through its official platform and some of the tickets of the final are prices at a whopping $2.3 million. Tickets for most group games of FIFA World Cup are priced in range of $380 to $4,105.

FIFA chief Gianni Infantino has defended the high prices of upcoming Football World Cup 2026 which starts June 11 in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. The fans across the globe are accusing FIFA of betrayal over high prices of tickets which Infantino says are as per the US market. FIFA is also reselling tickets through its official platform and some of the tickets of the final are prices at a whopping $2.3 million. Infantino, attending an event in the USA on Tuesday (May 5) laughed off the prices with a cheeky remark which involved him getting the patron a hot dog and a coke for buying a $2 million ticket to the FIFA World Cup final on July 19. FIFA chief Infantino defends high resale prices of WC tickets Speaking at Milken Institute Global Conference in Beverly Hills, California, Infantino addresses the concerns regarding high prices of tickets especially on resale, and said: "If some people put on the resale market some tickets for the final at $2 million, No. 1, it doesn't mean that the tickets cost $2 million, and No. 2, it doesn't mean that somebody will buy these tickets. And if somebody buys a ticket for the final for $2 million, I will personally bring a hot dog and a Coke to make sure that he has a great experience." Notably, FIFA charges 15 per cent each from the buyer and seller as purchase and selling fee on its official resale platform. Infantino says ticket prices are as per US market Other than being sold on resale platform, FIFA's prices for World Cup tickets have generally drawn criticism from the fans. Infantino, while saying that the prices are as per US market, says that money from tickets is used in making the sport stronger at grass root level across the world. Tickets for most group games of FIFA World Cup are priced in range of $380 to $4,105. "We have to look at the market," Infantino said. "We are in the market in which entertainment is the most developed in the world, so we have to apply market rates."

FIFA is also reselling tickets through its official platform and some of the tickets of the final are prices at a whopping $2.3 million. Tickets for most group games of FIFA World Cup are priced in range of $380 to $4,105.

Football World Cup | 'Will personally bring hot dog & Coke': FIFA chief on $2.3 million reselling price of final's tickets

The FIFA World Cup 2026, scheduled to begin on June 11, has made the players leaving the pitch in protest and covering their mouths susceptible to a potential red card. The policy change was confirmed by the International Football Association Board (IFAB) on Tuesday (Apr 28) ahead of FIFA meeting in Vancouver, Canada on Thursday (Apr 30). The red card will be at referee's discretion, confirmed IFAB in a statement. The changes come on the back of two incidents - Senegal players walking off the pitch vs Morocco in protest during AFCON final and Benfica's Gianluca <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-prestianni-speaks-on-racism-claims-against-vinicius-jr-as-benfica-releases-video-in-support-1771391849074">Prestianni racially abusing Real Madrid' Vinicus Jr.</a> with a covered mouth in a Champions League game in February earlier this year.<h2>Why players may get red card for leaving pitch or covering mouth in FIFA World Cup 2026?</h2>After the Presstiani incident in the ongoing Champions League where he racially abused Vini Jr. for which he was handed a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-bans-benfica-s-gianluca-prestianni-for-six-games-for-discriminatory-conduct-during-real-madrid-clash-1777041674108">six-match ban by the UEFA</a>, FIFA president Gianni Infantino led the charge for stricter rules, including a read card.Presstiani initially had denined racially abusing Vini Jr. during the Champions League play-off match, but agreed to it in subsequent hearing heald the European body. Vini jr. immediately complained to the referee about the incident and had left the pitch in protest, resulting in a dealy in the game.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/fifa-chief-calls-for-automatic-forfeit-of-games-for-teams-whose-fans-get-involved-in-racism-during-games-682122">FIFA chief calls for automatic forfeit of games for teams whose fans get involved in racism during games</a>The second reason for which players may now get a red card in FIFA WC is walking off the pitch in protest. The incident which prompted it was Senegal players walking off against Morocco in AFCON final against a penalty decision. Senegal evenntually won the match but as Morocco missed the penalty post a lengthy delay. Later on, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-senegral-forfeited-final-morocco-new-winner-of-africa-cup-of-nations-decalred-confederation-of-african-football-1773805121074">took the title away from Senegal and gave it to Morocco</a>, prompting an appeal from Senegal against the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).<h2>What happens if a player leaves in protest because of racial abuse?</h2>The two points for which a player can be given a red card by referee in FIFA World Cup 2026 are: 1) leaving pitch in protest, and 2) covering mouths during altercation - the two points are intertwined as a player may walk off in protest after suffering racial abuse - something with the European football body has raised as an objection against applying the rule in own league.Speaking on the rules, IFAB said in statement: "The referee may sanction with a red card any player who leaves the field of play in protest at a referee’s decision. This new rule will also apply to any team official who incites players to leave the field of play. A team that causes a match to be abandoned will, in principle, forfeit the match."

The changes come on the back of two incidents - Senegal players walking off the pitch vs Morocco in protest during AFCON final and Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni racially abusing Real Madrid' Vinicus Jr. with a covered mouth in a Champions League game in February earlier this year.

The FIFA World Cup 2026, scheduled to begin on June 11, has made the players leaving the pitch in protest and covering their mouths susceptible to a potential red card. The policy change was confirmed by the International Football Association Board (IFAB) on Tuesday (Apr 28) ahead of FIFA meeting in Vancouver, Canada on Thursday (Apr 30). The red card will be at referee's discretion, confirmed IFAB in a statement. The changes come on the back of two incidents - Senegal players walking off the pitch vs Morocco in protest during AFCON final and Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni racially abusing Real Madrid' Vinicus Jr. with a covered mouth in a Champions League game in February earlier this year. Why players may get red card for leaving pitch or covering mouth in FIFA World Cup 2026? After the Presstiani incident in the ongoing Champions League where he racially abused Vini Jr. for which he was handed a six-match ban by the UEFA, FIFA president Gianni Infantino led the charge for stricter rules, including a read card. Presstiani initially had denined racially abusing Vini Jr. during the Champions League play-off match, but agreed to it in subsequent hearing heald the European body. Vini jr. immediately complained to the referee about the incident and had left the pitch in protest, resulting in a dealy in the game. Also Read - FIFA chief calls for automatic forfeit of games for teams whose fans get involved in racism during games The second reason for which players may now get a red card in FIFA WC is walking off the pitch in protest. The incident which prompted it was Senegal players walking off against Morocco in AFCON final against a penalty decision. Senegal evenntually won the match but as Morocco missed the penalty post a lengthy delay. Later on, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) took the title away from Senegal and gave it to Morocco, prompting an appeal from Senegal against the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). What happens if a player leaves in protest because of racial abuse? The two points for which a player can be given a red card by referee in FIFA World Cup 2026 are: 1) leaving pitch in protest, and 2) covering mouths during altercation - the two points are intertwined as a player may walk off in protest after suffering racial abuse - something with the European football body has raised as an objection against applying the rule in own league. Speaking on the rules, IFAB said in statement: "The referee may sanction with a red card any player who leaves the field of play in protest at a referee’s decision. This new rule will also apply to any team official who incites players to leave the field of play. A team that causes a match to be abandoned will, in principle, forfeit the match."

The changes come on the back of two incidents - Senegal players walking off the pitch vs Morocco in protest during AFCON final and Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni racially abusing Real Madrid' Vinicus Jr. with a covered mouth in a Champions League game in February earlier this year.

FIFA World Cup 2026 | 'Referee’s decision': Players may get red card for leaving pitch in protest or covering mouths

FIFA chief Gianni Infantino says that Iran is coming to the Football World Cup 2026. The statement comes amid ongoing tensions between the US, one of the three co-hosts of the tournament, and Iran which started Feb 28. The quadrennial tournament begins June 11 and runs till Jul 19. Along with the US, Canada and Mexico are also co-hosting the tournament. Infantino's comments do give a hint about FIFA rejecting Iran's request to move its matches out of the US. Iran are in Group G of the 48-team tournament and have matches scheduled against New Zealand on June 15 and against Belgium on June 21 at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, Los Angeles while the third group-stage match is against Egypt on June 26 at Lumen Field in Seattle.<h2>Is Iran going to compete in FIFA World Cup 2026? Infantino makes big statement</h2>"The Iranian team is coming for sure, yes," Infantino said on Wednesday (Apr 15) while speaking at an event in the USA. "We hope that by then, of course, the situation will be a peaceful situation. As I said, that would definitely help. But Iran has to come. Of course, they represent their people. They have qualified. The players want to play."The FIFA chief, however, acknowledged the current situation between the two countries, but remain hopeful of everything coming together."OK we don’t live on the moon, we live on planet Earth," Infantino said about the current geopolitical situation between the two countries. "But you know if there is nobody else that believes in building bridges and in keeping them, you know, intact and together, well we are doing that job."<h2>Iran at FIFA World Cup 2026</h2>Ever since the war broke out between the two countries on last day of Feb, both, the US and Iran, have exchanged hostilities. They are currently observing a fragile ceasefire until April 22 with second round of talks expected this weekend. Earlier, US President Donald Trump had said that Iran 'should not come for their own security', &nbsp;after which the West Asian country requested the matches to be shifted outside the US.

Iran are in Group G of the 48-team tournament and have matches scheduled against New Zealand on June 15 and against Belgium on June 21 at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, Los Angeles while the third group-stage match is against Egypt on June 26 at Lumen Field in Seattle.

FIFA chief Gianni Infantino says that Iran is coming to the Football World Cup 2026. The statement comes amid ongoing tensions between the US, one of the three co-hosts of the tournament, and Iran which started Feb 28. The quadrennial tournament begins June 11 and runs till Jul 19. Along with the US, Canada and Mexico are also co-hosting the tournament. Infantino's comments do give a hint about FIFA rejecting Iran's request to move its matches out of the US. Iran are in Group G of the 48-team tournament and have matches scheduled against New Zealand on June 15 and against Belgium on June 21 at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, Los Angeles while the third group-stage match is against Egypt on June 26 at Lumen Field in Seattle. Is Iran going to compete in FIFA World Cup 2026? Infantino makes big statement "The Iranian team is coming for sure, yes," Infantino said on Wednesday (Apr 15) while speaking at an event in the USA. "We hope that by then, of course, the situation will be a peaceful situation. As I said, that would definitely help. But Iran has to come. Of course, they represent their people. They have qualified. The players want to play." The FIFA chief, however, acknowledged the current situation between the two countries, but remain hopeful of everything coming together. "OK we don’t live on the moon, we live on planet Earth," Infantino said about the current geopolitical situation between the two countries. "But you know if there is nobody else that believes in building bridges and in keeping them, you know, intact and together, well we are doing that job." Iran at FIFA World Cup 2026 Ever since the war broke out between the two countries on last day of Feb, both, the US and Iran, have exchanged hostilities. They are currently observing a fragile ceasefire until April 22 with second round of talks expected this weekend. Earlier, US President Donald Trump had said that Iran 'should not come for their own security', after which the West Asian country requested the matches to be shifted outside the US.

Iran are in Group G of the 48-team tournament and have matches scheduled against New Zealand on June 15 and against Belgium on June 21 at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, Los Angeles while the third group-stage match is against Egypt on June 26 at Lumen Field in Seattle.

Football World Cup 2026 | 'Iran has to come,' says FIFA chief Gianni Infantino about its participation

FIFA chief Gianni Infantino says that US President Donald Trump has assured to 'allow Iran to participate' at the upcoming Football World Cup 2026. The event is being co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico from Jun 11 to Jul 19, but Iran's participation is under doubt. Infantino's comments came amid the onoing US-Israel-Iran war which started on Feb 28 and saw Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenie dying in strikes. Earlier, Trump had said that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-israel-iran-war-trump-does-not-care-about-iran-s-participation-in-fifa-world-cup-2026-1772615400885">'he doesn't care' if Iran participated</a> in the World Cup or not. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/iran-blames-us-for-coercing-women-footballers-for-australia-asylum-says-who-would-send-team-for-fifa-wc-1773207186035">Iran football federation chief Mehedi Taj also casted doubt</a> the team going to the US for the World Cup.<h2>Will USA President Donald Trump allow Iran to participate in the FIFA World Cup 2026?</h2>Ever since the US-Israel-Iran war broke out last month, the Middle Eastern country's participation in the FIFA World Cup 2026 has been under a cloud of doubt. Taking to Instagram on Wednesday (Mar 11) about the situation, Infantino informed that he "spoke about the current situation in Iran"."During the discussions, President Trump reiterated that the Iranian team is, of course, welcome to compete in the tournament in the United States," Infantino said.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-fund-refunds-and-disciplinary-measures-what-happens-if-iran-pulls-out-of-fifa-world-cup-2026-1773118066659">What happens if Iran pulls out of FIFA World Cup 2026</a>"We all need an event like the Fifa World Cup to bring people together now more than ever, and I sincerely thank the president of the United States for his support, as it shows once again that football unites the world," he added.<h2>Where is Iran scheduled to play in US during FIFA World Cup 2026?</h2>Iran is placed in Group G of the 48-team event along with Belgium, New Zealand, and Egypt. The Middle Eastern country starts the FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign on June 15 vs New Zealand at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, California. Iran next plays Belgium on June 21 at the same venue before facing Egypt in the last group-stage match on June 26 at Lume Field in Seattle, Washington. &nbsp;

Ever since the US-Israel-Iran war broke out last month, the Middle Eastern country's participation in the FIFA World Cup 2026 has been under a cloud of doubt. Taking to Instagram on Wednesday (Mar 11) about the situation, Infantino informed that he "spoke about the current situation in Iran".

FIFA chief Gianni Infantino says that US President Donald Trump has assured to 'allow Iran to participate' at the upcoming Football World Cup 2026. The event is being co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico from Jun 11 to Jul 19, but Iran's participation is under doubt. Infantino's comments came amid the onoing US-Israel-Iran war which started on Feb 28 and saw Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenie dying in strikes. Earlier, Trump had said that 'he doesn't care' if Iran participated in the World Cup or not. Iran football federation chief Mehedi Taj also casted doubt the team going to the US for the World Cup. Will USA President Donald Trump allow Iran to participate in the FIFA World Cup 2026? Ever since the US-Israel-Iran war broke out last month, the Middle Eastern country's participation in the FIFA World Cup 2026 has been under a cloud of doubt. Taking to Instagram on Wednesday (Mar 11) about the situation, Infantino informed that he "spoke about the current situation in Iran". "During the discussions, President Trump reiterated that the Iranian team is, of course, welcome to compete in the tournament in the United States," Infantino said. Also Read - What happens if Iran pulls out of FIFA World Cup 2026 "We all need an event like the Fifa World Cup to bring people together now more than ever, and I sincerely thank the president of the United States for his support, as it shows once again that football unites the world," he added. Where is Iran scheduled to play in US during FIFA World Cup 2026? Iran is placed in Group G of the 48-team event along with Belgium, New Zealand, and Egypt. The Middle Eastern country starts the FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign on June 15 vs New Zealand at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, California. Iran next plays Belgium on June 21 at the same venue before facing Egypt in the last group-stage match on June 26 at Lume Field in Seattle, Washington.

Ever since the US-Israel-Iran war broke out last month, the Middle Eastern country's participation in the FIFA World Cup 2026 has been under a cloud of doubt. Taking to Instagram on Wednesday (Mar 11) about the situation, Infantino informed that he "spoke about the current situation in Iran".

FIFA World Cup 2026 | Will Trump allow Iran to come to US? FIFA chief Infantino says 'of course'

FIFA boss Gianni Infantino has called for red card for players who cover their mouth during the altercation with oppostion players in the upcoming Football World Cup 2026 which is scheduled to be played from Jun 11 to Jul 19 in the USA, Mexico, and Canada. The statement comes amid Gianluca Prestianni of Portugese club Benfica being investigated for alleged racial abuse towards Real Madrid's Vinicious Jr. The incident happend in Real Madrid vs Benfica Champions League knockout playoff first leg match. Following this, Prestianni was suspended by UEFA provisionally for one match and didn't take part in the second leg game against the Real Madrid, pending an investigation. If Prestianni is found guilty of charges, he could very well face a 10-match ban, while risking <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-prestianni-risks-losing-career-for-benifca-if-racism-charges-against-viini-jr-proven-1772425044692">losing his career with Benfica</a>.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-isreal-iran-war-iran-s-participation-in-fifa-world-cup-2026-unlikely-amid-ongoing-attacks-1772420510367">FIFA WC 2026 | Iran's participation 'unlikely' after US-Israel attacks</a>&nbsp;<h2>Infantino on tackling abuse in FIFA Word Cup 2026</h2>"If a player covers his mouth and says something, and this has a racist consequence, then he has to be sent off, obviously," Infantino told Sky News on Monday (Mar 2). "There must be a presumption that he has said something he shouldn't have said, otherwise he wouldn't have had to cover his mouth. There are situations which we did not foresee [Prestianni case]. Of course, when you deal with a disciplinary case, you have to analyse the situation, you have to have evidence, but we cannot just be satisfied with that going forward," he adeed.<h2>Prestianni denies racism claims</h2>In the aftermath of being accused of racims, Prestianni, after the first leg match, denined all the allegations. Prestianni, three hours after the match, offered a statement on social media and wrote: "I want to clarify that at no time did I direct racist insults at Vinícius Júnior; he unfortunately misinterpreted what was said. I have never been racist towards anyone."Benfica has also released a video of the exact moment Vini Jr ran to referee Francois Letexier to complain. In the video shared by Benfica, who lost the match 0-1, the club says nothing could be heard what has been told, alluding to Real Madrid star Vini Jr's claim of being abused with racially charged taunts.&nbsp;

The statement comes amid Benfica's Prestianni being investigated for alleged racial abuse towards Real Madrid's Vinicious Jr. The incident happend in Real Madrid vs Benfica Champions League knockout playoff first leg match. FIFA WC 2026 which is scheduled to be played from Jun 11 to Jul 19.

FIFA boss Gianni Infantino has called for red card for players who cover their mouth during the altercation with oppostion players in the upcoming Football World Cup 2026 which is scheduled to be played from Jun 11 to Jul 19 in the USA, Mexico, and Canada. The statement comes amid Gianluca Prestianni of Portugese club Benfica being investigated for alleged racial abuse towards Real Madrid's Vinicious Jr. The incident happend in Real Madrid vs Benfica Champions League knockout playoff first leg match. Following this, Prestianni was suspended by UEFA provisionally for one match and didn't take part in the second leg game against the Real Madrid, pending an investigation. If Prestianni is found guilty of charges, he could very well face a 10-match ban, while risking losing his career with Benfica. Also Read - FIFA WC 2026 | Iran's participation 'unlikely' after US-Israel attacks Infantino on tackling abuse in FIFA Word Cup 2026 "If a player covers his mouth and says something, and this has a racist consequence, then he has to be sent off, obviously," Infantino told Sky News on Monday (Mar 2). "There must be a presumption that he has said something he shouldn't have said, otherwise he wouldn't have had to cover his mouth. There are situations which we did not foresee [Prestianni case]. Of course, when you deal with a disciplinary case, you have to analyse the situation, you have to have evidence, but we cannot just be satisfied with that going forward," he adeed. Prestianni denies racism claims In the aftermath of being accused of racims, Prestianni, after the first leg match, denined all the allegations. Prestianni, three hours after the match, offered a statement on social media and wrote: "I want to clarify that at no time did I direct racist insults at Vinícius Júnior; he unfortunately misinterpreted what was said. I have never been racist towards anyone." Benfica has also released a video of the exact moment Vini Jr ran to referee Francois Letexier to complain. In the video shared by Benfica, who lost the match 0-1, the club says nothing could be heard what has been told, alluding to Real Madrid star Vini Jr's claim of being abused with racially charged taunts.

The statement comes amid Benfica's Prestianni being investigated for alleged racial abuse towards Real Madrid's Vinicious Jr. The incident happend in Real Madrid vs Benfica Champions League knockout playoff first leg match. FIFA WC 2026 which is scheduled to be played from Jun 11 to Jul 19

Football World Cup 2026 | 'To be sent off': FIFA boss Infantino on players covering mouth during argument in tournament

World'd football governing organization FIFA has pledged $50 million to build a new soccer stadium in Gaza. The announcement came during the inaugural meeting of US preisdent Donlad Trump's Board of Peace in Washington on Thursday (Feb 19). Gaza has been left in rubble after two years of fighting with Israel. The world has come together to rebuild it and the FIFA is playing its part by making 'football a universal language,' as per FIFA president Gianni Infantino.<h2>FIFA pledges $50 million for new soccer stadium in Gaza</h2>"We don't have to just rebuild houses or schools or hospitals or roads," said FIFA president Gianni Infantino. "We also have to rebuild and build people, emotion, hope and trust. And this is what football, my sport, is about."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/winter-olympics-2026-alysa-liu-wins-usa-s-first-women-s-figure-skating-gold-in-over-two-decades-1771547198915">Winter Olympics 2026 | Liu wins USA's 1st women's figure skating gold since 2002</a>The new stadium will have a holding capacity of 20,000-25,000 fans, and the organisation also promised to build a $15 million FIFA academy separately as well as 50 'mini arena pitches' for an extra $2.5 million and five full-sized fields worth $1 million each."Football, or soccer, as it is called here, is the world's universal language," Infantino said. "It's about hope. It's about joy. It's about happiness. It's about coming together. It's about uniting the world."<h2>Palestine in FIFA World Cup 2026</h2>Palestine national team, which represents Gaza and West Bank together, was recognized by FIFA in 1998 but has never been able to qualify for the main event.The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be played from June 11 to July 19 in the USA, Canada, and Mexico across 16 venues with 11 of them being in the USA. Canada and Mexico will be hosting 13 matches each in the tournament while the USA will be the home for 78 matches including the final.

The organisation also promised to build a $15 million FIFA academy separately as well as 50 'mini arena pitches' for an extra $2.5 million and five full-sized fields worth $1 million each. Palestine national team, which represents Gaza and West Bank together, was recognized by FIFA in 1998.

World'd football governing organization FIFA has pledged $50 million to build a new soccer stadium in Gaza. The announcement came during the inaugural meeting of US preisdent Donlad Trump's Board of Peace in Washington on Thursday (Feb 19). Gaza has been left in rubble after two years of fighting with Israel. The world has come together to rebuild it and the FIFA is playing its part by making 'football a universal language,' as per FIFA president Gianni Infantino. FIFA pledges $50 million for new soccer stadium in Gaza "We don't have to just rebuild houses or schools or hospitals or roads," said FIFA president Gianni Infantino. "We also have to rebuild and build people, emotion, hope and trust. And this is what football, my sport, is about." Also Read - Winter Olympics 2026 | Liu wins USA's 1st women's figure skating gold since 2002 The new stadium will have a holding capacity of 20,000-25,000 fans, and the organisation also promised to build a $15 million FIFA academy separately as well as 50 'mini arena pitches' for an extra $2.5 million and five full-sized fields worth $1 million each. "Football, or soccer, as it is called here, is the world's universal language," Infantino said. "It's about hope. It's about joy. It's about happiness. It's about coming together. It's about uniting the world." Palestine in FIFA World Cup 2026 Palestine national team, which represents Gaza and West Bank together, was recognized by FIFA in 1998 but has never been able to qualify for the main event. The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be played from June 11 to July 19 in the USA, Canada, and Mexico across 16 venues with 11 of them being in the USA. Canada and Mexico will be hosting 13 matches each in the tournament while the USA will be the home for 78 matches including the final.

The organisation also promised to build a $15 million FIFA academy separately as well as 50 'mini arena pitches' for an extra $2.5 million and five full-sized fields worth $1 million each. Palestine national team, which represents Gaza and West Bank together, was recognized by FIFA in 1998.

'It is about hope': FIFA vows $50 million for new football stadium in Gaza during inaugural Board of Peace meeting

FIFA chief Gianni Infantino defended his controversial decision to award a peace prize to United States president Donald Trump as he dismissed calls for a World Cup boycott. Infantino was widely criticised for giving Trump the honour on behalf of his governing body at the 2026 World Cup draw in Washington DC in December. The move drew further scrutiny after US forces seized Venezuelan president Miguel Maduro, while Trump caused more controversy with his desire to acquire Greenland for national security reasons.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serie-a-inter-milan-fans-throw-flares-hit-cremonese-goalkeeper-watch-1770002940980">Serie A | WATCH - Inter Milan fans throw flares, hit Cremonese goalkeeper</a>However, Infantino insisted Trump was deserving of FIFA's inaugural peace prize, telling Sky News on Monday: "Objectively, he deserves it."Whatever we can do to help peace in the world, we should be doing it, and for this reason, for some time we were thinking we should do something to reward people who do something."Infantino rejected suggestions there might be a boycott of this year's World Cup -- to be held in the United States, Canada and Mexico from June 11 to July 19 -- due to policies adopted at home and abroad by the Trump administration.There has been unrest in a number of US cities, most notably Minneapolis, over the Trump administration's approach to immigration enforcement.But FIFA president Infantino said there were never calls for businesses to boycott a country, "so why football?"The 55-year-old added: "In our divided world, in our aggressive world, we need occasions where people can come, can meet around the passion (for football)."Infantino also said FIFA and UEFA -- European football's governing body -- would "have to" look at allowing Russia back into international action.Russia has been banned since its invasion of Ukraine in 2022, but the International Olympic Committee has now recommended sports federations allow Russian teams to compete at youth level."We have to (look at readmitting Russia). Definitely," Infantino said."This ban has not achieved anything, it has just created more frustration and hatred."Having girls and boys from Russia being able to play football games in other parts of Europe would help."

Infantino rejected suggestions there might be a boycott of this year's World Cup -- to be held in the United States, Canada and Mexico from June 11 to July 19 -- due to policies adopted at home and abroad by the Trump administration.

FIFA chief Gianni Infantino defended his controversial decision to award a peace prize to United States president Donald Trump as he dismissed calls for a World Cup boycott. Infantino was widely criticised for giving Trump the honour on behalf of his governing body at the 2026 World Cup draw in Washington DC in December. The move drew further scrutiny after US forces seized Venezuelan president Miguel Maduro, while Trump caused more controversy with his desire to acquire Greenland for national security reasons. Also Read: Serie A | WATCH - Inter Milan fans throw flares, hit Cremonese goalkeeper However, Infantino insisted Trump was deserving of FIFA's inaugural peace prize, telling Sky News on Monday: "Objectively, he deserves it. "Whatever we can do to help peace in the world, we should be doing it, and for this reason, for some time we were thinking we should do something to reward people who do something." Infantino rejected suggestions there might be a boycott of this year's World Cup -- to be held in the United States, Canada and Mexico from June 11 to July 19 -- due to policies adopted at home and abroad by the Trump administration. There has been unrest in a number of US cities, most notably Minneapolis, over the Trump administration's approach to immigration enforcement. But FIFA president Infantino said there were never calls for businesses to boycott a country, "so why football?" The 55-year-old added: "In our divided world, in our aggressive world, we need occasions where people can come, can meet around the passion (for football)." Infantino also said FIFA and UEFA -- European football's governing body -- would "have to" look at allowing Russia back into international action. Russia has been banned since its invasion of Ukraine in 2022, but the International Olympic Committee has now recommended sports federations allow Russian teams to compete at youth level. "We have to (look at readmitting Russia). Definitely," Infantino said. "This ban has not achieved anything, it has just created more frustration and hatred. "Having girls and boys from Russia being able to play football games in other parts of Europe would help."

Infantino rejected suggestions there might be a boycott of this year's World Cup -- to be held in the United States, Canada and Mexico from June 11 to July 19 -- due to policies adopted at home and abroad by the Trump administration.

FIFA World Cup 2026 | Infantino defends giving peace prize to US president Trump

FIFA President Gianni Infantino praised football’s magic at the World Economic Forum (WEF) summit in Davos, Switzerland, highlighting the game’s power. Speaking on the penultimate day of the WEF, Infantino reckons football has transformed people’s lives around the globe as it brings the community together. During the summit, 2006 FIFA World Cup winner Alessandro Del Piero and former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger also reflected on football’s role.<h2>Infantino praises football's magic globally</h2>"This is a magic instrument (while holding a football) that transforms people into happy people. This is what this strange instrument does. And children, the children's faces become happy and adults become children and they start playing, passing the ball. This is fantastic, this is beautiful and this is something that we are forgetting,” FIFA President Infantino said at the World Economic Forum summit in Davos on Thursday.&nbsp;“Dear friends, ladies and gentlemen, in these particular times we forget to be happy, to be joyful. Everyone has their own problems, issues in life and with football, we want to give to communities all over the world. FIFA has 211 countries that are members of FIFA. We want to give them a moment of joy and happiness. When a child kicks a ball, when an adult kicks a ball, they don't think about their issues and their problems in life and we have to always remember that," Infantino added.&nbsp;The FIFA president reckons that the upcoming FIFA World Cup is a huge economic booster, with an estimated $80 billion turnaround. He also underlined that the FIFA World Cup will create thousands of job opportunities for the community.&nbsp;Del Piero spoke about the role football played in his life growing up and how winning the FIFA World Cup with his country in 2006 made him feel complete not only as a footballer but also as a human being.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;"It's not very difficult, but we probably need more time to explain how big lifting the trophy and winning the World Cup means to me, to every football player, I guess. I mean, first of all, you feel complete. You feel complete as a footballer, of course, and also as a human being,” Del Piero said during his address.&nbsp;“I say both because, you know, I started playing because I had a passion for football. My only focus was playing football, even though I have to say that I needed to go to school and be a good student, and blah, blah, blah--but yeah, it's part of the journey. Football was always in my mind: trying to become a football player, but also just enjoying it. And then, as soon as you grow up, you understand, of course, different things," the former Juventus attacker said.&nbsp;Wenger explained that football has grown enormously since the first World Cup, expanding from a small, Europe-South America-focused competition into a truly global sport.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a>&nbsp;“100 years ago, you had 13 teams playing in the first World Cup and it shows football's development. I'm now in football development and I realize how big football has become in the world. When you speak about the number of tickets people want, you cannot imagine,” Wenger said during his address.&nbsp;“I travel all over the world and football has become the most important thing people talk about. And to me, for a long time, it was a confidential competition between Europe and South America. We had to open it to the world and I think the minimum we could do is to open it to more African countries, more Asian countries. Because you want football to be strong everywhere," Wenger stated.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino reckons that the upcoming FIFA World Cup is a huge economic booster, with an estimated $80 billion turnaround. He also underlined that the FIFA World Cup will create thousands of job opportunities for the community.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino praised football’s magic at the World Economic Forum (WEF) summit in Davos, Switzerland, highlighting the game’s power. Speaking on the penultimate day of the WEF, Infantino reckons football has transformed people’s lives around the globe as it brings the community together. During the summit, 2006 FIFA World Cup winner Alessandro Del Piero and former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger also reflected on football’s role. Infantino praises football's magic globally "This is a magic instrument (while holding a football) that transforms people into happy people. This is what this strange instrument does. And children, the children's faces become happy and adults become children and they start playing, passing the ball. This is fantastic, this is beautiful and this is something that we are forgetting,” FIFA President Infantino said at the World Economic Forum summit in Davos on Thursday. “Dear friends, ladies and gentlemen, in these particular times we forget to be happy, to be joyful. Everyone has their own problems, issues in life and with football, we want to give to communities all over the world. FIFA has 211 countries that are members of FIFA. We want to give them a moment of joy and happiness. When a child kicks a ball, when an adult kicks a ball, they don't think about their issues and their problems in life and we have to always remember that," Infantino added. The FIFA president reckons that the upcoming FIFA World Cup is a huge economic booster, with an estimated $80 billion turnaround. He also underlined that the FIFA World Cup will create thousands of job opportunities for the community. Del Piero spoke about the role football played in his life growing up and how winning the FIFA World Cup with his country in 2006 made him feel complete not only as a footballer but also as a human being. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli "It's not very difficult, but we probably need more time to explain how big lifting the trophy and winning the World Cup means to me, to every football player, I guess. I mean, first of all, you feel complete. You feel complete as a footballer, of course, and also as a human being,” Del Piero said during his address. “I say both because, you know, I started playing because I had a passion for football. My only focus was playing football, even though I have to say that I needed to go to school and be a good student, and blah, blah, blah--but yeah, it's part of the journey. Football was always in my mind: trying to become a football player, but also just enjoying it. And then, as soon as you grow up, you understand, of course, different things," the former Juventus attacker said. Wenger explained that football has grown enormously since the first World Cup, expanding from a small, Europe-South America-focused competition into a truly global sport. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds “100 years ago, you had 13 teams playing in the first World Cup and it shows football's development. I'm now in football development and I realize how big football has become in the world. When you speak about the number of tickets people want, you cannot imagine,” Wenger said during his address. “I travel all over the world and football has become the most important thing people talk about. And to me, for a long time, it was a confidential competition between Europe and South America. We had to open it to the world and I think the minimum we could do is to open it to more African countries, more Asian countries. Because you want football to be strong everywhere," Wenger stated.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino reckons that the upcoming FIFA World Cup is a huge economic booster, with an estimated $80 billion turnaround. He also underlined that the FIFA World Cup will create thousands of job opportunities for the community.

Davos 2026: FIFA President Gianni Infantino praises football's magic globally, says 'it transforms people's life'

The group stage for the 2026 FIFA World Cup was officially announced during an extravagant final draw ceremony at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, DC on Friday (December 5). Exciting matchups include Brazil vs. Morocco, the Netherlands facing Japan, and a highly anticipated rematch between France and Senegal, the team that stunned them in the 2002 World Cup. There will also be thrilling encounters for first-time World Cup participants Cabo Verde, Curaçao, Jordan, and Uzbekistan, who will take on powerhouse teams like Spain, Germany, Argentina, and Portugal. Additionally, Mexico and South Africa will kick off the tournament in Mexico City on June 11, 2026.&nbsp;The next key moment on the road to the 2026 World Cup will be the official release of the full match schedule on Saturday (December 6), which will include details on venues and kick-off times for all 104 games. This will be unveiled live on FIFA.com. The draw itself was conducted by Rio Ferdinand, the former England captain, with help from sports legends such as Tom Brady, Wayne Gretzky, Aaron Judge, and Shaquille O’Neal. The event was hosted by Kevin Hart, Heidi Klum, and Danny Ramirez, and featured stunning performances from Andrea Bocelli, Robbie Williams, Nicole Scherzinger, Lauryn Hill, and the Village People.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gianni-infantino-presents-us-president-donald-trump-with-fifa-peace-award-1764956385727">Gianni Infantino presents US President Donald Trump with FIFA Peace Award</a><h2>Here is the final list for the group stage</h2>Group A: Mexico; South Africa; Republic of Korea; UEFA Play-off D winnerGroup B: Canada; UEFA Play-off A winner; Qatar; SwitzerlandGroup C: Brazil; Morocco; Haiti; Scotland&nbsp;Group D: USA; Paraguay; Australia; UEFA Play-off C winnerGroup E: Germany; Curacao; Côte d’Ivoire; EcuadorGroup F: Netherlands; Japan; UEFA Play-off B winner; Tunisia&nbsp;Group G: Belgium; Egypt; Islamic Republic of Iran; New ZealandGroup H: Spain; Cabo Verde; Saudi Arabia; Uruguay&nbsp;Group I: France; Senegal; FIFA Play-off 2 winner; NorwayGroup J: Argentina; Algeria; Austria; Jordan&nbsp;Group K: Portugal; FIFA Play-off 1 winner; Uzbekistan; Colombia&nbsp;Group L: England; Croatia; Ghana; Panama<h2>How many teams will take part in the 2026 FIFA World Cup?</h2>A total of 48 countries will battle it out to lift the prestigious trophy. Argentina are the defending champions after they beat France in the 2022 World Cup in a penalty shoot-out after the match ended 3-3 in regulation time. The tournament will have a total of 104 matches, which will be played across three countries — the USA, Canada and Mexico. Notably, it is for the first time that the FIFA World Cup will be hosted by three countries.<h2>What are the venues for the 2026 FIFA World Cup?</h2>Thursday, 11 June 2026Match 1 - Group A (Mexico #1) – Estadio Azteca Mexico City Match 2 – Group A - Estadio GuadalajaraFriday, 12 June 2026Match 3 - Group B (Canada #1) – Toronto Stadium Match 4 - Group D (USA #1) – Los Angeles StadiumSaturday, 13 June 2026Match 5 – Group C - Boston Stadium Match 6 – Group D - BC Place Vancouver Match 7 – Group C - New York New Jersey Stadium Match 8 – Group B - San Francisco Bay Area StadiumSunday, 14 June 2026Match 9 – Group E - Philadelphia Stadium Match 10 – Group E - Houston Stadium Match 11 – Group F - Dallas Stadium Match 12 – Group F - Estadio MonterreyMonday, 15 June 2026Match 13 – Group H - Miami Stadium Match 14 – Group H - Atlanta Stadium Match 15 – Group G - Los Angeles Stadium Match 16 – Group G - Seattle StadiumTuesday, 16 June 2026Match 17 – Group I - New York New Jersey Stadium Match 18 – Group I - Boston Stadium Match 19 – Group J - Kansas City Stadium Match 20 – Group J - San Francisco Bay Area StadiumWednesday, 17 June 2026Match 21 – Group L - Toronto Stadium Match 22 – Group L - Dallas Stadium Match 23 – Group K - Houston Stadium Match 24 – Group K - Estadio Azteca Mexico CityThursday, 18 June 2026Match 25 – Group A - Atlanta Stadium Match 26 – Group B - Los Angeles Stadium Match 27 - Group B - (Canada #2) – BC Place Vancouver Match 28 - Group A - (Mexico #2) – Estadio GuadalajaraFriday, 19 June 2026Match 29 – Group C - Philadelphia Stadium Match 30 – Group C - Boston Stadium Match 31 – Group D - San Francisco Bay Area Stadium Match 32 - Group D (USA #2) – Seattle StadiumSaturday, 20 June 2026Match 33 – Group E - Toronto Stadium Match 34 – Group E - Kansas City Stadium Match 35 – Group F - Houston Stadium Match 36 – Group F - Estadio MonterreySunday, 21 June 2026Match 37 – Group H - Miami Stadium Match 38 – Group H - Atlanta Stadium Match 39 – Group G - Los Angeles Stadium Match 40 – Group G - BC Place VancouverMonday, 22 June 2026Match 41 – Group I - New York New Jersey Stadium Match 42 – Group I - Philadelphia Stadium Match 43 – Group J - Dallas Stadium Match 44 – Group J - San Francisco Bay Area StadiumTuesday, 23 June 2026Match 45 – Group L - Boston Stadium Match 46 – Group L - Toronto Stadium Match 47 – Group K - Houston Stadium Match 48 – Group K - Estadio GuadalajaraWednesday, 24 June 2026Match 49 – Group C - Miami Stadium Match 50 – Group C - Atlanta Stadium Match 51 - Group B (Canada #3) – BC Place Vancouver Match 52 – Group B - Seattle Stadium Match 53 - Group A - (Mexico #3) – Estadio Azteca Mexico City Match 54 – Group A - Estadio MonterreyThursday, 25 June 2026Match 55 – Group E - Philadelphia Stadium Match 56 – Group E - New York New Jersey Stadium Match 57 – Group F - Dallas Stadium Match 58 – Group F - Kansas City Stadium Match 59 - Group D - (USA #3) – Los Angeles Stadium Match 60 – Group D - San Francisco Bay Area StadiumFriday, 26 June 2026Match 61 – Group I - Boston Stadium Match 62 – Group I - Toronto Stadium Match 63 – Group G - Seattle Stadium Match 64 – Group G - BC Place Vancouver Match 65 – Group H - Houston Stadium Match 66 – Group H - Estadio GuadalajaraSaturday, 27 June 2026Match 67 – Group L - New York New Jersey Stadium Match 68 – Group L - Philadelphia Stadium Match 69 – Group J - Kansas City Stadium Match 70 – Group J - Dallas Stadium Match 71 – Group K - Miami Stadium Match 72 – Group K - Atlanta Stadium<h2>FIFA World Cup 26 – Round of 32 fixtures</h2>Sunday, 28 June 2026Match 73 – Group A runners-up v Group B runners-up - Los Angeles StadiumMonday, 29 June 2026Match 74 – Group E winners v Group A/B/C/D/F third place - Boston Stadium Match 75 – Group F winners v Group C runners-up - Estadio Monterrey Match 76 – Group C winners v Group F runners-up - Houston StadiumTuesday, 30 June 2026Match 77 – Group I winners v Group C/D/F/G/H third place - New York New Jersey Stadium Match 78 – Group E runners up v Group I runners-up - Dallas Stadium Match 79 – Group A winners v Group C/E/F/H/I third place - Estadio Azteca Mexico CityWednesday, 1 July 2026Match 80 – Group L winners v Group E/H/I/J/K third place - Atlanta Stadium Match 81 – Group D winners v Group B/E/F/I/J third place - San Francisco Bay Area Stadium Match 82 – Group G winners v Group A/E/H/I/J third place - Seattle StadiumThursday, 2 July 2026Match 83 – Group K runners-up v Group L runners-up - Toronto Stadium Match 84 – Group H winners v Group J runners-up - Los Angeles Stadium Match 85 – Group B winners v Group E/F/G/I/J third place - BC Place VancouverFriday, 3 July 2026Match 86 – Group J winners v Group H runners-up - Miami Stadium Match 87 – Group K winners v Group D/E/I/J/L third place - Kansas City Stadium Match 88 – Group D runners-up v Group G runners-up - Dallas Stadium<h2>FIFA World Cup 26 Round of 16 fixtures</h2>Saturday, 4 July 2026Match 89 – Winner match 74 v Winner match 77 - Philadelphia Stadium Match 90 – Winner match 73 v Winner match 75 - Houston StadiumSunday, 5 July 2026Match 91 – Winner match 76 v Winner match 78 - New York New Jersey Stadium Match 92 – Winner match 79 v Winner match 80 - Estadio Azteca Mexico CityMonday, 6 July 2026Match 93 – Winner match 83 v Winner match 84 - Dallas Stadium Match 94 – Winner match 81 v Winner match 82 - Seattle StadiumTuesday, 7 July 2026Match 95 – Winner match 86 v Winner match 88 - Atlanta Stadium Match 96 – Winner match 85 v Winner match 87 - BC Place Vancouver<h2>FIFA World Cup 26 quarter-final fixtures</h2>Thursday, 9 July 2026Match 97 – Winner match 89 v Winner match 90 - Boston StadiumFriday, 10 July 2026Match 98 – Winner match 93 v Winner match 94 - Los Angeles StadiumSaturday, 11 July 2026Match 99 – Winner match 91 v Winner match 92 - Miami Stadium Match 100 – Winner match 95 v Winner match 96 - Kansas City Stadium<h2>FIFA World Cup 26 semi-final fixtures</h2>Tuesday, 14 July 2026Match 101 – Winner match 97 v Winner match 98 - Dallas StadiumWednesday, 15 July 2026Match 102 – Winner match 99 v Winner match 100 - Atlanta Stadium<h2>FIFA World Cup 26 bronze final</h2>Saturday, 18 July 2026Match 103 – Loser match 101 v Loser match 102 - Miami Stadium<h2>FIFA World Cup 26 Final</h2>Sunday, 19 July 2026Match 104 – Winner match 101 v Winner match 102 - New York New Jersey Stadium

FIFA World Cup draw 2026: South Africa to take on Mexico in opening mach. Check all teams, groups, key games, schedule and dates. Full list here

The group stage for the 2026 FIFA World Cup was officially announced during an extravagant final draw ceremony at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, DC on Friday (December 5). Exciting matchups include Brazil vs. Morocco, the Netherlands facing Japan, and a highly anticipated rematch between France and Senegal, the team that stunned them in the 2002 World Cup. There will also be thrilling encounters for first-time World Cup participants Cabo Verde, Curaçao, Jordan, and Uzbekistan, who will take on powerhouse teams like Spain, Germany, Argentina, and Portugal. Additionally, Mexico and South Africa will kick off the tournament in Mexico City on June 11, 2026. The next key moment on the road to the 2026 World Cup will be the official release of the full match schedule on Saturday (December 6), which will include details on venues and kick-off times for all 104 games. This will be unveiled live on FIFA.com. The draw itself was conducted by Rio Ferdinand, the former England captain, with help from sports legends such as Tom Brady, Wayne Gretzky, Aaron Judge, and Shaquille O’Neal. The event was hosted by Kevin Hart, Heidi Klum, and Danny Ramirez, and featured stunning performances from Andrea Bocelli, Robbie Williams, Nicole Scherzinger, Lauryn Hill, and the Village People. Also Read: Gianni Infantino presents US President Donald Trump with FIFA Peace Award Here is the final list for the group stage Group A: Mexico; South Africa; Republic of Korea; UEFA Play-off D winner Group B: Canada; UEFA Play-off A winner; Qatar; Switzerland Group C: Brazil; Morocco; Haiti; Scotland Group D: USA; Paraguay; Australia; UEFA Play-off C winner Group E: Germany; Curacao; Côte d’Ivoire; Ecuador Group F: Netherlands; Japan; UEFA Play-off B winner; Tunisia Group G: Belgium; Egypt; Islamic Republic of Iran; New Zealand Group H: Spain; Cabo Verde; Saudi Arabia; Uruguay Group I: France; Senegal; FIFA Play-off 2 winner; Norway Group J: Argentina; Algeria; Austria; Jordan Group K: Portugal; FIFA Play-off 1 winner; Uzbekistan; Colombia Group L: England; Croatia; Ghana; Panama How many teams will take part in the 2026 FIFA World Cup? A total of 48 countries will battle it out to lift the prestigious trophy. Argentina are the defending champions after they beat France in the 2022 World Cup in a penalty shoot-out after the match ended 3-3 in regulation time. The tournament will have a total of 104 matches, which will be played across three countries — the USA, Canada and Mexico. Notably, it is for the first time that the FIFA World Cup will be hosted by three countries. What are the venues for the 2026 FIFA World Cup? Thursday, 11 June 2026 Match 1 - Group A (Mexico #1) – Estadio Azteca Mexico City Match 2 – Group A - Estadio Guadalajara Friday, 12 June 2026 Match 3 - Group B (Canada #1) – Toronto Stadium Match 4 - Group D (USA #1) – Los Angeles Stadium Saturday, 13 June 2026 Match 5 – Group C - Boston Stadium Match 6 – Group D - BC Place Vancouver Match 7 – Group C - New York New Jersey Stadium Match 8 – Group B - San Francisco Bay Area Stadium Sunday, 14 June 2026 Match 9 – Group E - Philadelphia Stadium Match 10 – Group E - Houston Stadium Match 11 – Group F - Dallas Stadium Match 12 – Group F - Estadio Monterrey Monday, 15 June 2026 Match 13 – Group H - Miami Stadium Match 14 – Group H - Atlanta Stadium Match 15 – Group G - Los Angeles Stadium Match 16 – Group G - Seattle Stadium Tuesday, 16 June 2026 Match 17 – Group I - New York New Jersey Stadium Match 18 – Group I - Boston Stadium Match 19 – Group J - Kansas City Stadium Match 20 – Group J - San Francisco Bay Area Stadium Wednesday, 17 June 2026 Match 21 – Group L - Toronto Stadium Match 22 – Group L - Dallas Stadium Match 23 – Group K - Houston Stadium Match 24 – Group K - Estadio Azteca Mexico City Thursday, 18 June 2026 Match 25 – Group A - Atlanta Stadium Match 26 – Group B - Los Angeles Stadium Match 27 - Group B - (Canada #2) – BC Place Vancouver Match 28 - Group A - (Mexico #2) – Estadio Guadalajara Friday, 19 June 2026 Match 29 – Group C - Philadelphia Stadium Match 30 – Group C - Boston Stadium Match 31 – Group D - San Francisco Bay Area Stadium Match 32 - Group D (USA #2) – Seattle Stadium Saturday, 20 June 2026 Match 33 – Group E - Toronto Stadium Match 34 – Group E - Kansas City Stadium Match 35 – Group F - Houston Stadium Match 36 – Group F - Estadio Monterrey Sunday, 21 June 2026 Match 37 – Group H - Miami Stadium Match 38 – Group H - Atlanta Stadium Match 39 – Group G - Los Angeles Stadium Match 40 – Group G - BC Place Vancouver Monday, 22 June 2026 Match 41 – Group I - New York New Jersey Stadium Match 42 – Group I - Philadelphia Stadium Match 43 – Group J - Dallas Stadium Match 44 – Group J - San Francisco Bay Area Stadium Tuesday, 23 June 2026 Match 45 – Group L - Boston Stadium Match 46 – Group L - Toronto Stadium Match 47 – Group K - Houston Stadium Match 48 – Group K - Estadio Guadalajara Wednesday, 24 June 2026 Match 49 – Group C - Miami Stadium Match 50 – Group C - Atlanta Stadium Match 51 - Group B (Canada #3) – BC Place Vancouver Match 52 – Group B - Seattle Stadium Match 53 - Group A - (Mexico #3) – Estadio Azteca Mexico City Match 54 – Group A - Estadio Monterrey Thursday, 25 June 2026 Match 55 – Group E - Philadelphia Stadium Match 56 – Group E - New York New Jersey Stadium Match 57 – Group F - Dallas Stadium Match 58 – Group F - Kansas City Stadium Match 59 - Group D - (USA #3) – Los Angeles Stadium Match 60 – Group D - San Francisco Bay Area Stadium Friday, 26 June 2026 Match 61 – Group I - Boston Stadium Match 62 – Group I - Toronto Stadium Match 63 – Group G - Seattle Stadium Match 64 – Group G - BC Place Vancouver Match 65 – Group H - Houston Stadium Match 66 – Group H - Estadio Guadalajara Saturday, 27 June 2026 Match 67 – Group L - New York New Jersey Stadium Match 68 – Group L - Philadelphia Stadium Match 69 – Group J - Kansas City Stadium Match 70 – Group J - Dallas Stadium Match 71 – Group K - Miami Stadium Match 72 – Group K - Atlanta Stadium FIFA World Cup 26 – Round of 32 fixtures Sunday, 28 June 2026 Match 73 – Group A runners-up v Group B runners-up - Los Angeles Stadium Monday, 29 June 2026 Match 74 – Group E winners v Group A/B/C/D/F third place - Boston Stadium Match 75 – Group F winners v Group C runners-up - Estadio Monterrey Match 76 – Group C winners v Group F runners-up - Houston Stadium Tuesday, 30 June 2026 Match 77 – Group I winners v Group C/D/F/G/H third place - New York New Jersey Stadium Match 78 – Group E runners up v Group I runners-up - Dallas Stadium Match 79 – Group A winners v Group C/E/F/H/I third place - Estadio Azteca Mexico City Wednesday, 1 July 2026 Match 80 – Group L winners v Group E/H/I/J/K third place - Atlanta Stadium Match 81 – Group D winners v Group B/E/F/I/J third place - San Francisco Bay Area Stadium Match 82 – Group G winners v Group A/E/H/I/J third place - Seattle Stadium Thursday, 2 July 2026 Match 83 – Group K runners-up v Group L runners-up - Toronto Stadium Match 84 – Group H winners v Group J runners-up - Los Angeles Stadium Match 85 – Group B winners v Group E/F/G/I/J third place - BC Place Vancouver Friday, 3 July 2026 Match 86 – Group J winners v Group H runners-up - Miami Stadium Match 87 – Group K winners v Group D/E/I/J/L third place - Kansas City Stadium Match 88 – Group D runners-up v Group G runners-up - Dallas Stadium FIFA World Cup 26 Round of 16 fixtures Saturday, 4 July 2026 Match 89 – Winner match 74 v Winner match 77 - Philadelphia Stadium Match 90 – Winner match 73 v Winner match 75 - Houston Stadium Sunday, 5 July 2026 Match 91 – Winner match 76 v Winner match 78 - New York New Jersey Stadium Match 92 – Winner match 79 v Winner match 80 - Estadio Azteca Mexico City Monday, 6 July 2026 Match 93 – Winner match 83 v Winner match 84 - Dallas Stadium Match 94 – Winner match 81 v Winner match 82 - Seattle Stadium Tuesday, 7 July 2026 Match 95 – Winner match 86 v Winner match 88 - Atlanta Stadium Match 96 – Winner match 85 v Winner match 87 - BC Place Vancouver FIFA World Cup 26 quarter-final fixtures Thursday, 9 July 2026 Match 97 – Winner match 89 v Winner match 90 - Boston Stadium Friday, 10 July 2026 Match 98 – Winner match 93 v Winner match 94 - Los Angeles Stadium Saturday, 11 July 2026 Match 99 – Winner match 91 v Winner match 92 - Miami Stadium Match 100 – Winner match 95 v Winner match 96 - Kansas City Stadium FIFA World Cup 26 semi-final fixtures Tuesday, 14 July 2026 Match 101 – Winner match 97 v Winner match 98 - Dallas Stadium Wednesday, 15 July 2026 Match 102 – Winner match 99 v Winner match 100 - Atlanta Stadium FIFA World Cup 26 bronze final Saturday, 18 July 2026 Match 103 – Loser match 101 v Loser match 102 - Miami Stadium FIFA World Cup 26 Final Sunday, 19 July 2026 Match 104 – Winner match 101 v Winner match 102 - New York New Jersey Stadium

The draw for the FIFA World Cup took place on Friday (December 5). In the opening match of the prestigious tournament, South Africa will take on Mexico. A total of 48 will be taking part in the event

At the 2026 World Cup draw taking place in Washington, DC, FIFA President Gianni Infantino presented the first-ever FIFA Peace Prize to his “close friend” Donald Trump. The award was given about 30 minutes into the high-profile ceremony at the Kennedy Center, before teams for next summer’s World Cup in the US, Canada, and Mexico are going to be selected.&nbsp;&nbsp;Trump, standing beside Infantino, called the honour “one of the greatest of my life,” adding that their efforts had “saved millions and millions of lives.” The prize, announced by FIFA last month without approval from its governing FIFA Council, was created to recognise individuals whose extraordinary contributions to peace have brought people together worldwide, according to FIFA.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-riyan-parag-more-than-ready-for-captaining-rajasthan-royals-if-offered-1764945780791">IPL 2026: Riyan Parag 'more than ready' for captaining Rajasthan Royals if offered</a>&nbsp;“A leader must care about the well-being of peoples, we want to unite peoples and Mr. President, you deserve this first prize for what you have accomplished and achieved. And you can always count on my support and that of the football community,” FIFA president Gianni Infantino was quoted as saying after handing the award to Trump.&nbsp;Donald Trump has maintained a close relationship with FIFA President Gianni Infantino, and received a special award two months after being overlooked for the Nobel Peace Prize. Recently, FIFA further cemented its connection with US President Donald Trump by appointing his daughter, Ivanka, to the board of a $100 million educational initiative partly funded by ticket sales from the 2026 World Cup. In its announcement of the new award, FIFA stated that it would be presented annually to individuals whose dedicated actions have significantly contributed to bringing people together in peace, deserving of unique and exceptional recognition. The US president thanked his family, including his wife, first lady Melania Trump, and appreciated the leaders of the other two host countries, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, in his brief speech.

Gianni Infantino presents US President Donald Trump with FIFA Peace Award

At the 2026 World Cup draw taking place in Washington, DC, FIFA President Gianni Infantino presented the first-ever FIFA Peace Prize to his “close friend” Donald Trump. The award was given about 30 minutes into the high-profile ceremony at the Kennedy Center, before teams for next summer’s World Cup in the US, Canada, and Mexico are going to be selected. Trump, standing beside Infantino, called the honour “one of the greatest of my life,” adding that their efforts had “saved millions and millions of lives.” The prize, announced by FIFA last month without approval from its governing FIFA Council, was created to recognise individuals whose extraordinary contributions to peace have brought people together worldwide, according to FIFA. Also Read: IPL 2026: Riyan Parag 'more than ready' for captaining Rajasthan Royals if offered “A leader must care about the well-being of peoples, we want to unite peoples and Mr. President, you deserve this first prize for what you have accomplished and achieved. And you can always count on my support and that of the football community,” FIFA president Gianni Infantino was quoted as saying after handing the award to Trump. Donald Trump has maintained a close relationship with FIFA President Gianni Infantino, and received a special award two months after being overlooked for the Nobel Peace Prize. Recently, FIFA further cemented its connection with US President Donald Trump by appointing his daughter, Ivanka, to the board of a $100 million educational initiative partly funded by ticket sales from the 2026 World Cup. In its announcement of the new award, FIFA stated that it would be presented annually to individuals whose dedicated actions have significantly contributed to bringing people together in peace, deserving of unique and exceptional recognition. The US president thanked his family, including his wife, first lady Melania Trump, and appreciated the leaders of the other two host countries, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, in his brief speech.

FIFA’s Gianni Infantino awards Donald Trump the inaugural Peace Prize at the 2026 World Cup draw, honouring his claimed global peace efforts

FIFA has announced a new annual award called the FIFA Peace Prize, which will be awarded for the first time at the 2026 World Cup fixture in Washington DC on Dec 5 (Friday). The award will be handed by the FIFA president Gianni Infantino. The FIFA president said that the football sends a message of peace and this award will honour people who use the sport to unite people together and inspire future generations.&nbsp;"Football stands for peace, and on behalf of the entire global football community, the FIFA Peace Prize -- Football Unites the World will recognise the enormous efforts of those individuals who unite people, bringing hope for future generations," FIFA president Gianni Infantino said in a statement.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wpl-s-lucky-charm-only-player-to-win-two-titles-with-two-teams-in-two-seasons-has-played-only-1-match-in-league-1762495415916">WPL's lucky charm? Only player to win two titles with two teams in two seasons</a><h2>Is US President Donald Trump going to receive it?&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;FIFA President Infantino and US President Donald Trump have a strong bond between them and appeared together at several events since the United States have won the rights to host the 2026 World Cup. Infantino openly spoke about his good relations with President Trump and said that he consider him as his close friend.&nbsp;“We have a great relationship, I'm really lucky. I have a great relationship with President Trump, where I consider him a really close friend”, said Infantino.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fide-world-cup-2025-vidit-gujrathi-ends-12-year-old-faustino-oro-s-dream-run-pranav-pranesh-and-praggnanandhaa-also-advance-1762439409164">FIDE World Cup 2025: Vidit ends 12-year-old Faustino Oro’s dream run; Pranav, Pranesh and Praggnanandhaa also advance</a>&nbsp;FIFA has also strengthened its connection with Trump’s family by appointing his daughter Ivanka to the board of a $100 million education project funded partly through 2026 World Cup ticket revenue.&nbsp;&nbsp;However, FIFA has not yet revealed who will receive the first Peace Prize and Infantino also did not confirm whether Trump will be the winner or not.

US President Donald Trump missed out on the Nobel Peace Prize last month, which was awarded to Venezuela's Maria Corina Machado.

FIFA has announced a new annual award called the FIFA Peace Prize, which will be awarded for the first time at the 2026 World Cup fixture in Washington DC on Dec 5 (Friday). The award will be handed by the FIFA president Gianni Infantino. The FIFA president said that the football sends a message of peace and this award will honour people who use the sport to unite people together and inspire future generations. "Football stands for peace, and on behalf of the entire global football community, the FIFA Peace Prize -- Football Unites the World will recognise the enormous efforts of those individuals who unite people, bringing hope for future generations," FIFA president Gianni Infantino said in a statement. Also Read - WPL's lucky charm? Only player to win two titles with two teams in two seasons Is US President Donald Trump going to receive it? FIFA President Infantino and US President Donald Trump have a strong bond between them and appeared together at several events since the United States have won the rights to host the 2026 World Cup. Infantino openly spoke about his good relations with President Trump and said that he consider him as his close friend. “We have a great relationship, I'm really lucky. I have a great relationship with President Trump, where I consider him a really close friend”, said Infantino. Also Read - FIDE World Cup 2025: Vidit ends 12-year-old Faustino Oro’s dream run; Pranav, Pranesh and Praggnanandhaa also advance FIFA has also strengthened its connection with Trump’s family by appointing his daughter Ivanka to the board of a $100 million education project funded partly through 2026 World Cup ticket revenue. However, FIFA has not yet revealed who will receive the first Peace Prize and Infantino also did not confirm whether Trump will be the winner or not.

US President Donald Trump missed out on the Nobel Peace Prize last month, which was awarded to&nbsp;Venezuela's Maria Corina Machado.

What is FIFA Peace Prize? Will US President Donald Trump be first recipient

Trump reportedly kept the FIFA Club World Cup Trophy at the Oval Office, while Chelsea had to make do with a replica. According to the sports magazine Athletic, FIFA President Gianni Infantino&nbsp;set aside a winner’s medal for Trump and handed it to him after the ceremony. England's Chelsea became the winner after thrashing UEFA Champions League holder Paris Saint-Germain in the final of the Club World Cup on Sunday at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Following Chelsea's victory, Trump was requested to present the trophy to the winning squad. However, following the distribution of the trophy, Trump surprisingly joined in for the celebration on the podium with the team. The players seemed visibly baffled.&nbsp;While speaking to the sports broadcaster DAZN, Trump said, FIFA President Gianni Infantino has given the trophy to him, and he could hold onto it 'forever'."They said, 'Could you hold this trophy for a little while?' We put it in the Oval Office,' and then I said, 'When are you going to pick up the trophy?' He says, 'We're never going to pick it up. You can have it forever in the Oval Office. We're making a new one."“And they actually made a new one (for the winner), so that was quite exciting, but right now (the original) is in the Oval,” said Trump.The $230,000 worth FIFA trophy, crafted in collaboration with Tiffany &amp; Co, features three outer rings and a 24-carat gold-plated coating.In a press conference in March during the visit of Infantino, Trump said he had "never seen anything like" the trophy. Then he said it would stay in the Oval Office."If you like it, Mr President, it can stay here, just on the 13th of July, you should take it with me to the stadium to give it to the winners, they can take a picture with it, then we can bring it back here," Infantino appeared to joke.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">⚽️🥇 DID DONALD TRUMP JUST POCKET A MEDAL 🥇⚽️ <a href="https://t.co/GPVSlJ4axQ">pic.twitter.com/GPVSlJ4axQ</a>&mdash; Brian Krijgsman (@BrianKrijgsman) <a href="https://twitter.com/BrianKrijgsman/status/1944784018500637160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The presentation was an occasion of social awkwardness for Chelsea players, special Chelsea star boy and man-of-the-match Cole Palmer, who looked bewildered as Trump remained on the stage for the Trophy lifting of the squad. Cole Palmer was also awarded the Player of the Tournament, and he received the Golden Ball.&nbsp;"I knew he was going to be here, but I didn't know he was going to be on the stand when we lifted the trophy, so I was a bit confused," said Cole Palmer after the match.

Trump has claimed in an interview with the Sports Broadcaster DAZN that he has the Club World Cup trophy in the Oval Office, and Chelsea has a replica of the original one. He also pocketed a winner's medal for himself.

Trump reportedly kept the FIFA Club World Cup Trophy at the Oval Office, while Chelsea had to make do with a replica. According to the sports magazine Athletic, FIFA President Gianni Infantino set aside a winner’s medal for Trump and handed it to him after the ceremony. England's Chelsea became the winner after thrashing UEFA Champions League holder Paris Saint-Germain in the final of the Club World Cup on Sunday at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Following Chelsea's victory, Trump was requested to present the trophy to the winning squad. However, following the distribution of the trophy, Trump surprisingly joined in for the celebration on the podium with the team. The players seemed visibly baffled. While speaking to the sports broadcaster DAZN, Trump said, FIFA President Gianni Infantino has given the trophy to him, and he could hold onto it 'forever'. "They said, 'Could you hold this trophy for a little while?' We put it in the Oval Office,' and then I said, 'When are you going to pick up the trophy?' He says, 'We're never going to pick it up. You can have it forever in the Oval Office. We're making a new one." “And they actually made a new one (for the winner), so that was quite exciting, but right now (the original) is in the Oval,” said Trump. The $230,000 worth FIFA trophy, crafted in collaboration with Tiffany & Co, features three outer rings and a 24-carat gold-plated coating. In a press conference in March during the visit of Infantino, Trump said he had "never seen anything like" the trophy. Then he said it would stay in the Oval Office. "If you like it, Mr President, it can stay here, just on the 13th of July, you should take it with me to the stadium to give it to the winners, they can take a picture with it, then we can bring it back here," Infantino appeared to joke.

Trump has claimed in an interview with the Sports Broadcaster DAZN that he has the Club World Cup trophy in the Oval Office, and Chelsea has a replica of the original one. He also pocketed a winner's medal for himself.

'Never seen anything like the trophy': Trump kept the Club World Cup trophy for himself, Chelsea gets a replica

FIFA president Gianni Infantino triumphantly declared the Club World Cup to be "the most successful club competition in the world" on Saturday, ahead of this weekend's final between Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea. The first 32-team edition of the tournament faced criticism in the build-up for stretching demands on elite players and has been played out in baking temperatures in the United States that have raised concerns for the health of those involved. There were also doubts about the level of interest the competition would generate among fans, but Infantino said he was satisfied with the attendances at matches -- despite many games being far from sold out -- and claimed it had been a major success financially.&nbsp;"The golden age of club football has started. We can definitely say this FIFA Club World Cup has been a huge success," Infantino told reporters at Trump Tower on New York City's Fifth Avenue, where FIFA has just opened an office.&nbsp;&nbsp;"We heard that financially it would not work, that nobody is interested, but I can say we generated almost 2.1 billion dollars in revenues, for 63 matches," he said. "That makes an average of $33 million per match -- no other club competition in the world comes close.&nbsp;"It is already the most successful club competition in the world."&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-forever-our-number-20-liverpool-retire-diogo-jota-s-squad-number-in-heartfelt-tribute-to-late-forward-1752291255824">'Forever our number 20': Liverpool retire Diogo Jota's squad number in heartfelt tribute to late forward</a>&nbsp;Former Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp has been one of the leading voices against the tournament, calling it "the worst idea ever implemented in football" in a recent interview. But the head of world football's governing body dismissed suggestions that Klopp might be speaking for most observers in Europe.&nbsp;"We shouldn't say that the opinion of Europe on this is very bad because it is not true," said Infantino, who was appearing on a stage alongside numerous footballing greats, including the Brazilian Ronaldo. "All the teams who have come here have been happy -- some teams who didn't come here because they didn't qualify were calling us to see how they could qualify.&nbsp;"Of course I would have liked to have Liverpool here, Arsenal, Manchester United, Barcelona, Tottenham, AC Milan, Napoli... but you have to qualify and there are different criteria."&nbsp;The next Club World Cup is due to take place in 2029, with Infantino refusing to commit when asked whether the tournament could be played every two years or be expanded to feature more teams.&nbsp;"We created something new, something which is here to stay, something which is changing the landscape of club football," he added.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

There were also doubts about the level of interest the competition would generate among fans, but Infantino said he was satisfied with the attendances at matches -- despite many games being far from sold out -- and claimed it had been a major success financially.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino triumphantly declared the Club World Cup to be "the most successful club competition in the world" on Saturday, ahead of this weekend's final between Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea. The first 32-team edition of the tournament faced criticism in the build-up for stretching demands on elite players and has been played out in baking temperatures in the United States that have raised concerns for the health of those involved. There were also doubts about the level of interest the competition would generate among fans, but Infantino said he was satisfied with the attendances at matches -- despite many games being far from sold out -- and claimed it had been a major success financially. "The golden age of club football has started. We can definitely say this FIFA Club World Cup has been a huge success," Infantino told reporters at Trump Tower on New York City's Fifth Avenue, where FIFA has just opened an office. "We heard that financially it would not work, that nobody is interested, but I can say we generated almost 2.1 billion dollars in revenues, for 63 matches," he said. "That makes an average of $33 million per match -- no other club competition in the world comes close. "It is already the most successful club competition in the world." Also read | 'Forever our number 20': Liverpool retire Diogo Jota's squad number in heartfelt tribute to late forward Former Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp has been one of the leading voices against the tournament, calling it "the worst idea ever implemented in football" in a recent interview. But the head of world football's governing body dismissed suggestions that Klopp might be speaking for most observers in Europe. "We shouldn't say that the opinion of Europe on this is very bad because it is not true," said Infantino, who was appearing on a stage alongside numerous footballing greats, including the Brazilian Ronaldo. "All the teams who have come here have been happy -- some teams who didn't come here because they didn't qualify were calling us to see how they could qualify. "Of course I would have liked to have Liverpool here, Arsenal, Manchester United, Barcelona, Tottenham, AC Milan, Napoli... but you have to qualify and there are different criteria." The next Club World Cup is due to take place in 2029, with Infantino refusing to commit when asked whether the tournament could be played every two years or be expanded to feature more teams. "We created something new, something which is here to stay, something which is changing the landscape of club football," he added. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

There were also doubts about the level of interest the competition would generate among fans, but Infantino said he was satisfied with the attendances at matches -- despite many games being far from sold out -- and claimed it had been a major success financially.

FIFA boss Infantino hails Club World Cup as 'world's most successful competition'

The 2026 World Cup final in New Jersey will make history by having a Super Bowl-style half-time show, world football chief Gianni Infantino said Wednesday.<o:p></o:p>
Coldplay band members Chris Martin and Phil Harvey will determine the artists who will perform, FIFA president Infantino said.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-last-16-liverpool-beat-psg-bayern-thrash-league-winners-leverkusen-8821407" rel="dofollow">Champions League: Liverpool beat PSG, Bayern thrash league winners Leverkusen in last 16</a>
"I can confirm the first-ever half-time show at a FIFA World Cup final in New York/New Jersey," Infantino wrote on Instagram. "This will be a historic moment for the FIFA World Cup and a show befitting the biggest sporting event in the world." <o:p></o:p>
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Infantino revealed the decision following a meeting of FIFA's commercial and media partners in Dallas ahead of the 2026 tournament, which will be co-hosted in the United States, Canada and Mexico.<o:p></o:p>
No further information about specific details or duration of the half-time show were revealed by Infantino.<o:p></o:p>
The move mirrors the show held during the final of last year's Copa America in Miami, when Colombian star Shakira performed at half-time at the Hard Rock Stadium.<o:p></o:p>
Infantino added that FIFA also planned to "take over" New York's Times Square on the final weekend of the tournament.
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Sports, Football: World famous band Coldplay band members Chris Martin and Phil Harvey will determine the artists who will perform, FIFA president Infantino said.

The 2026 World Cup final in New Jersey will make history by having a Super Bowl-style half-time show, world football chief Gianni Infantino said Wednesday. Coldplay band members Chris Martin and Phil Harvey will determine the artists who will perform, FIFA president Infantino said. Also read | Champions League: Liverpool beat PSG, Bayern thrash league winners Leverkusen in last 16 "I can confirm the first-ever half-time show at a FIFA World Cup final in New York/New Jersey," Infantino wrote on Instagram. "This will be a historic moment for the FIFA World Cup and a show befitting the biggest sporting event in the world." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Gianni Infantino - FIFA President (@gianni_infantino) Infantino revealed the decision following a meeting of FIFA's commercial and media partners in Dallas ahead of the 2026 tournament, which will be co-hosted in the United States, Canada and Mexico. No further information about specific details or duration of the half-time show were revealed by Infantino. The move mirrors the show held during the final of last year's Copa America in Miami, when Colombian star Shakira performed at half-time at the Hard Rock Stadium. Infantino added that FIFA also planned to "take over" New York's Times Square on the final weekend of the tournament. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Super-Bowl style half-time show to highlight 2026 World Cup final: Infantino

FIFA president Gianni Infantino, on Monday, called for relevant authorities to take action against Trabzonspor fans who attacked Fenerbahce players following the latter’s 3-2 win in the Turkish Super Lig match on Sunday (March 17). Scary visuals of Trabzonspor fans storming the pitch after the final whistle created a stir on the internet, with Fenerbahce players fighting back to defend themselves.

WATCH THE VIDEO HERE -

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🚨 Crazy scenes in Turkey between Trabzonspor fans entering the pitch and stormed the Fenerbahçe players.<a href="https://t.co/zbfNWhp11m">pic.twitter.com/zbfNWhp11m</a>
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1769465974690906397?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Infantino said the violence witnessed in the Turkish League is unacceptable on and off the field and that it has no place in society. He further asked authorities to take strict actions against those who breached the security following the game.&nbsp;

"The violence witnessed after the Turkish Super Lig match between Trabzonspor and Fenerbahce is absolutely unacceptable - on or off the field, it has no place in our sport or society," Infantino said in a statement. "All players have to be safe and secure to play the game, which brings such joy to so many people all over the world."

"I call on the relevant authorities to ensure that this is respected at all levels and for the perpetrators of the shocking events in Trabzon to be held accountable for their actions," he added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fa-cup-manchester-uniteds-amad-diallo-shown-red-card-after-extra-time-winner-against-liverpool-heres-why-701392">FA Cup – Manchester United’s Amad Diallo shown red card after extra-time winner against Liverpool, here’s why</a>

Meanwhile, Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya confirmed that police have arrested around a dozen fans in this incident. Fenerbahce players left the city by a private plane on&nbsp;Sunday night, accompanied by extensive security measures.

<h2>Chaos in Turkish Super Lig</h2>

However, several instances in the Turkish League have made headlines for the wrong reasons this season.&nbsp;

Earlier, there was an attack on a referee by a club president and protests against some of their decisions. Speaking on the same lines, Trabzonspor coach Abdullah Avci said the Turkish League has been fed by chaos, raising tensions everywhere.&nbsp;

"We are going through a period that Turkish football is now completely fed by chaos, where tensions are constantly high, and where we cannot use the healing power of football," Trabzonspor coach Abdullah Avci told reporters on Sunday.

"I don't understand why this place is so tense. Don't we have the right to celebrate? We need to overcome these things. We need to be tolerant towards each other and have common sense," Fenerbahce manager Ismail Kartal told reporters.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino, on Monday, called for relevant authorities to take action against Trabzonspor fans who attacked Fenerbahce players following the latter’s 3-2 win in the Turkish Super Lig match on Sunday (March 17).

FIFA president Gianni Infantino, on Monday, called for relevant authorities to take action against Trabzonspor fans who attacked Fenerbahce players following the latter’s 3-2 win in the Turkish Super Lig match on Sunday (March 17). Scary visuals of Trabzonspor fans storming the pitch after the final whistle created a stir on the internet, with Fenerbahce players fighting back to defend themselves. WATCH THE VIDEO HERE - 🚨 Crazy scenes in Turkey between Trabzonspor fans entering the pitch and stormed the Fenerbahçe players.pic.twitter.com/zbfNWhp11m — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 17, 2024 × Infantino said the violence witnessed in the Turkish League is unacceptable on and off the field and that it has no place in society. He further asked authorities to take strict actions against those who breached the security following the game. "The violence witnessed after the Turkish Super Lig match between Trabzonspor and Fenerbahce is absolutely unacceptable - on or off the field, it has no place in our sport or society," Infantino said in a statement. "All players have to be safe and secure to play the game, which brings such joy to so many people all over the world." "I call on the relevant authorities to ensure that this is respected at all levels and for the perpetrators of the shocking events in Trabzon to be held accountable for their actions," he added. ALSO READ: FA Cup – Manchester United’s Amad Diallo shown red card after extra-time winner against Liverpool, here’s why Meanwhile, Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya confirmed that police have arrested around a dozen fans in this incident. Fenerbahce players left the city by a private plane on Sunday night, accompanied by extensive security measures. Chaos in Turkish Super Lig However, several instances in the Turkish League have made headlines for the wrong reasons this season. Earlier, there was an attack on a referee by a club president and protests against some of their decisions. Speaking on the same lines, Trabzonspor coach Abdullah Avci said the Turkish League has been fed by chaos, raising tensions everywhere. "We are going through a period that Turkish football is now completely fed by chaos, where tensions are constantly high, and where we cannot use the healing power of football," Trabzonspor coach Abdullah Avci told reporters on Sunday. "I don't understand why this place is so tense. Don't we have the right to celebrate? We need to overcome these things. We need to be tolerant towards each other and have common sense," Fenerbahce manager Ismail Kartal told reporters.

FIFA boss Infantino calls for action over Trabzonspor fans attacking Fenerbahce players in Turkey

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has called for an automatic forfeit of games for the teams whose fans indulge in racism acts during the play in various leagues such as Italian Serie A, English Premier League (EPL) and Spanish La Liga. He shared the thoughts after two separate incidents of racisms on Saturday (January 20) which included Serie A and English Football League (EFL) or the Championship.

“As well as the three-step process (match stopped, match re-stopped, match abandoned), we have to implement an automatic forfeit for the team whose fans have committed racism and caused the match to be abandoned, as well as worldwide stadium bans and criminal charges for racists,” said Infantino via a FIFA post on X.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-novak-djokovic-equals-roger-federers-record-with-fourth-round-win-682098">Australian Open: Novak Djokovic equals Roger Federer's record with fourth round win</a>

“FIFA and football shows full solidarity to victims of racism and any form of discrimination. Once and for all: No to racism! No to any form of discrimination! The events that took place in Udine and Sheffield on Saturday are totally abhorrent and completely unacceptable. The players affected by Saturday’s events have my undivided support. We need ALL the relevant stakeholders to take action, starting with education in schools so that future generations understand that this is not part of football or society,” he added.

In Serie A, AC Milan players walked off the pitch for a brief period of time after their French goalkeeper Mike Maignan alleged that Udinese fans made monkey noises in stands. In EFL, Coventry manager reported that mid-fielder Kasey Palmer was subjected to an racist gesture by a fan in dying moments of the game against Sheffield Wednesday.&nbsp;

For the games, Milan returned to play after five minutes and went on to win the match 3-2. Coventry, on the other hand, were already 2-1 ahead at the time of the incident and the score stayed the same.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has called for an automatic forfeit of games for the teams whose fans indulge in racism acts during the play in various leagues such as Italian Serie A, English Premier League (EPL) and Spanish La Liga.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has called for an automatic forfeit of games for the teams whose fans indulge in racism acts during the play in various leagues such as Italian Serie A, English Premier League (EPL) and Spanish La Liga. He shared the thoughts after two separate incidents of racisms on Saturday (January 20) which included Serie A and English Football League (EFL) or the Championship. “As well as the three-step process (match stopped, match re-stopped, match abandoned), we have to implement an automatic forfeit for the team whose fans have committed racism and caused the match to be abandoned, as well as worldwide stadium bans and criminal charges for racists,” said Infantino via a FIFA post on X. Also Read: Australian Open: Novak Djokovic equals Roger Federer's record with fourth round win “FIFA and football shows full solidarity to victims of racism and any form of discrimination. Once and for all: No to racism! No to any form of discrimination! The events that took place in Udine and Sheffield on Saturday are totally abhorrent and completely unacceptable. The players affected by Saturday’s events have my undivided support. We need ALL the relevant stakeholders to take action, starting with education in schools so that future generations understand that this is not part of football or society,” he added. In Serie A, AC Milan players walked off the pitch for a brief period of time after their French goalkeeper Mike Maignan alleged that Udinese fans made monkey noises in stands. In EFL, Coventry manager reported that mid-fielder Kasey Palmer was subjected to an racist gesture by a fan in dying moments of the game against Sheffield Wednesday. For the games, Milan returned to play after five minutes and went on to win the match 3-2. Coventry, on the other hand, were already 2-1 ahead at the time of the incident and the score stayed the same.

FIFA chief calls for automatic forfeit of games for teams whose fans get involved in racism during games

Criminal proceedings against FIFA President Gianni Infantino over his dealings with former Swiss attorney general Michael Lauber have been closed, Swiss prosecutors said on Thursday (October 26), a decision Infantino hailed as a vindication of "the new FIFA". Infantino was elected in 2016 to clean up world soccer body FIFA after it became embroiled in corruption scandals.

However, Swiss authorities launched proceedings against Infantino himself in 2020 on suspicions of secrecy violations, abuse of office and aiding and abetting related to meetings he held with Lauber.

In ending the proceedings, prosecutors said their investigations had "invalidated" such suspicions. Swiss-Italian Infantino, who had repeatedly denied any wrongdoing, said the decision was a "a full and clear victory for me, for the new FIFA and for justice."

"Indeed and with no surprise, the investigation fully and clearly confirms that I have always acted in a lawful and correct way, always defending exclusively the interests of FIFA and football," Infantino said.

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Swiss authorities had been investigating contacts between Infantino and Lauber, who resigned as Swiss attorney general after a court concluded he covered up a meeting with the FIFA boss and lied to supervisors while his office investigated corruption at the football body.

The prosecutors said that their investigation had turned up no evidence that Infantino had "instrumentalised" the Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland "into unusual, inexplicable, erroneous or even criminal acts or omissions".

FIFA said they had noted the decision to close the proceedings "with extreme satisfaction".

Criminal proceedings against FIFA President Gianni Infantino over his dealings with former Swiss attorney general Michael Lauber have been closed, Swiss prosecutors said on Thursday (October 26), a decision Infantino hailed as a vindication of "the new FIFA".

Criminal proceedings against FIFA President Gianni Infantino over his dealings with former Swiss attorney general Michael Lauber have been closed, Swiss prosecutors said on Thursday (October 26), a decision Infantino hailed as a vindication of "the new FIFA". Infantino was elected in 2016 to clean up world soccer body FIFA after it became embroiled in corruption scandals. However, Swiss authorities launched proceedings against Infantino himself in 2020 on suspicions of secrecy violations, abuse of office and aiding and abetting related to meetings he held with Lauber. In ending the proceedings, prosecutors said their investigations had "invalidated" such suspicions. Swiss-Italian Infantino, who had repeatedly denied any wrongdoing, said the decision was a "a full and clear victory for me, for the new FIFA and for justice." "Indeed and with no surprise, the investigation fully and clearly confirms that I have always acted in a lawful and correct way, always defending exclusively the interests of FIFA and football," Infantino said. Also Read: Arsenal plot long stay at Premier League summit, Man City play Tottenham and Newcastle host Man United Swiss authorities had been investigating contacts between Infantino and Lauber, who resigned as Swiss attorney general after a court concluded he covered up a meeting with the FIFA boss and lied to supervisors while his office investigated corruption at the football body. The prosecutors said that their investigation had turned up no evidence that Infantino had "instrumentalised" the Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland "into unusual, inexplicable, erroneous or even criminal acts or omissions". FIFA said they had noted the decision to close the proceedings "with extreme satisfaction".

FIFA President Gianni Infantino cleared of criminal charges, confirm Swiss prosecutors

FIFA chief Gianni Infantino said on Friday that the Women's World Cup generated more than $570 million in revenue and enabled soccer's global governing body to break even, despite raising the prize purse ten-fold compared to the 2015 edition.

The Swiss, in a typically combative speech, said the ninth edition of the FIFA showpiece event had been the "best and greatest and biggest", and vindicated the decision to raise the prize money and expand the field from 24 to 32 teams.

"Some voices were raised, would it cost too much? We don't make enough revenues, we will have to subsidise. And our opinion was, well if we have to subsidise, we will subsidise, because we have to do that," he told the FIFA Women's Football Convention.

"But actually, this World Cup generated over 570 million U.S. dollars in revenues, and so we broke even. We didn't lose any money and we generated the second highest income of any sport, besides of course the men's World Cup, at a global stage."

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That was one of the few comparisons to men's football in Infantino's speech. The $440 million prize purse for the men's World Cup in Qatar is still considerably more than the $152 million being shared by the women in Australia and New Zealand.

"I say to all the women, you have the power to change. Pick the right battles. Pick the right fights," Infantino said. "Just keep pushing, keep the momentum, keep dreaming, and let's really go for a full equality. Not just equal pay in the World Cup, which is a slogan that comes up every now and then."

"Equal pay in the World Cup, we are going in that direction already. But that would not solve anything ... because it's one month every four years and it's a few players out of the thousands and thousands of players."

Infantino also rounded on critics of the choice of Australia and New Zealand as hosts, and of the tournament's expansion.

"I remember when we decided to do that, of course the usual critics, which are less and less, were saying it's not going to work and the level is too different," he said. "There would be 15-0 scores, it will be bad for women's football and its image. I'm sorry but FIFA was right. FIFA was right. As it happens quite often in the last years, FIFA was right once more."

England play Spain in the World Cup final in Sydney on Sunday to close the tournament. 
 
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FIFA chief Gianni Infantino said on Friday that the Women's World Cup generated more than $570 million in revenue and enabled soccer's global governing body to break even, despite raising the prize purse ten-fold compared to the 2015 edition.

FIFA chief Gianni Infantino said on Friday that the Women's World Cup generated more than $570 million in revenue and enabled soccer's global governing body to break even, despite raising the prize purse ten-fold compared to the 2015 edition. The Swiss, in a typically combative speech, said the ninth edition of the FIFA showpiece event had been the "best and greatest and biggest", and vindicated the decision to raise the prize money and expand the field from 24 to 32 teams. "Some voices were raised, would it cost too much? We don't make enough revenues, we will have to subsidise. And our opinion was, well if we have to subsidise, we will subsidise, because we have to do that," he told the FIFA Women's Football Convention. "But actually, this World Cup generated over 570 million U.S. dollars in revenues, and so we broke even. We didn't lose any money and we generated the second highest income of any sport, besides of course the men's World Cup, at a global stage." ALSO READ: Tennis: US Open has no plans to tweak schedule to prevent late finishes That was one of the few comparisons to men's football in Infantino's speech. The $440 million prize purse for the men's World Cup in Qatar is still considerably more than the $152 million being shared by the women in Australia and New Zealand. "I say to all the women, you have the power to change. Pick the right battles. Pick the right fights," Infantino said. "Just keep pushing, keep the momentum, keep dreaming, and let's really go for a full equality. Not just equal pay in the World Cup, which is a slogan that comes up every now and then." "Equal pay in the World Cup, we are going in that direction already. But that would not solve anything ... because it's one month every four years and it's a few players out of the thousands and thousands of players." Infantino also rounded on critics of the choice of Australia and New Zealand as hosts, and of the tournament's expansion. "I remember when we decided to do that, of course the usual critics, which are less and less, were saying it's not going to work and the level is too different," he said. "There would be 15-0 scores, it will be bad for women's football and its image. I'm sorry but FIFA was right. FIFA was right. As it happens quite often in the last years, FIFA was right once more." England play Spain in the World Cup final in Sydney on Sunday to close the tournament. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Women's World Cup 2023 generated over $570 million in revenue for FIFA: Gianni Infantino

Former FIFA Council member Moya Dodd has criticised Gianni Infantino's threat of a Women's World Cup broadcast blackout in Europe this year and said the governing body is responsible for the tournament being historically undervalued. FIFA is selling TV rights to the women's tournament separately from the men's for the first time and President Infantino said Europe's "Big 5" nations face a blackout unless broadcasters improve on their "unacceptable" offers.

Broadcasters from Britain, Spain, France, Germany and Italy had offered only $1 million-$10 million for the rights, compared to $100 million-$200 million for the men's World Cup, he added. Dodd, an ex-Australia international, said the broadcast industry had undervalued the women's tournament as FIFA had sold the rights together with the men's. "Now that FIFA has decided to sell the rights separately, it's no surprise that the buyers don't want to pay the same big numbers twice," Dodd told the Sydney Morning Herald.

"Effectively, the industry was trained to pay big money for the men's World Cup and treat the women's equivalent as worthless. At the same time, the women were told they didn't deserve prize money or equal pay because they didn't bring the revenues. It's actually quite outrageous for FIFA to now say that all women's revenues will go straight into women's&nbsp;football since it overlooks the fact that the value of women's rights has until now been used to inflate the value of men's&nbsp;football."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-fifa-warns-of-womens-world-cup-broadcast-blackout-in-europe-amid-disappointing-offers-for-rights-588170">Football: FIFA warns of Women's World Cup broadcast blackout in Europe amid disappointing offers for rights</a>

Dodd said that instead of threatening broadcasters, FIFA should review all of its bundled deals and attribute a fair proportion to the women's game. "If in fact, the Women's World Cup gets 50-60 per cent&nbsp;of the viewers of the men's, as FIFA says, that should amount to a sum in the billions," she added.

FIFA did not comment on Dodd's remarks but Infantino earlier said that "100 per cent&nbsp;of any rights fees paid would go straight into women's&nbsp;football, in our (FIFA's) move to promote actions towards equal conditions and pay". In March, FIFA announced that a total package of $152 million would be on offer at this year's tournament – three times more than at the 2019 edition in France and over 10 times more than the amount offered at the 2015 tournament in Canada.

The Women's World Cup will be held from July 20-Aug 20 in Australia and New Zealand.

Former FIFA Council member Moya Dodd has criticised Gianni Infantino's threat of a Women's World Cup broadcast blackout in Europe this year and said the governing body is responsible for the tournament being historically undervalued.

Former FIFA Council member Moya Dodd has criticised Gianni Infantino's threat of a Women's World Cup broadcast blackout in Europe this year and said the governing body is responsible for the tournament being historically undervalued. FIFA is selling TV rights to the women's tournament separately from the men's for the first time and President Infantino said Europe's "Big 5" nations face a blackout unless broadcasters improve on their "unacceptable" offers. Broadcasters from Britain, Spain, France, Germany and Italy had offered only $1 million-$10 million for the rights, compared to $100 million-$200 million for the men's World Cup, he added. Dodd, an ex-Australia international, said the broadcast industry had undervalued the women's tournament as FIFA had sold the rights together with the men's. "Now that FIFA has decided to sell the rights separately, it's no surprise that the buyers don't want to pay the same big numbers twice," Dodd told the Sydney Morning Herald. "Effectively, the industry was trained to pay big money for the men's World Cup and treat the women's equivalent as worthless. At the same time, the women were told they didn't deserve prize money or equal pay because they didn't bring the revenues. It's actually quite outrageous for FIFA to now say that all women's revenues will go straight into women's football since it overlooks the fact that the value of women's rights has until now been used to inflate the value of men's football." Also Read: Football: FIFA warns of Women's World Cup broadcast blackout in Europe amid disappointing offers for rights Dodd said that instead of threatening broadcasters, FIFA should review all of its bundled deals and attribute a fair proportion to the women's game. "If in fact, the Women's World Cup gets 50-60 per cent of the viewers of the men's, as FIFA says, that should amount to a sum in the billions," she added. FIFA did not comment on Dodd's remarks but Infantino earlier said that "100 per cent of any rights fees paid would go straight into women's football, in our (FIFA's) move to promote actions towards equal conditions and pay". In March, FIFA announced that a total package of $152 million would be on offer at this year's tournament – three times more than at the 2019 edition in France and over 10 times more than the amount offered at the 2015 tournament in Canada. The Women's World Cup will be held from July 20-Aug 20 in Australia and New Zealand.

FIFA responsible for undervaluing Women's World Cup, says former FIFA Council member Moya Dodd

Gianni Infantino has been re-elected as president of FIFA till the year 2027, after running unopposed at the congress of world football’s ruling body. Infantino promised record revenues in the next four-year cycle for the premier body.

Gianni Infantino re-elected as FIFA president till 2027 after standing unopposed

FIFA will ask all the world's countries to name a stadium for Brazilian football legend Pele, the head of the sport's governing body, Gianni Infantino, said Monday at the late icon's wake. Infantino was in the city of Santos, Brazil, to pay his final respects to the player widely considered the greatest of all time, who died Thursday at the age of 82. "We’re going to ask every country in the world to name one of their football stadiums with the name of Pele," Infantino told journalists at the Vila Belmiro, the stadium where the player known as "The King" first exploded onto the world stage with his exploits for his longtime club, Santos FC.

Attending the 24-hour wake along with the heads of the South American and Brazilian football confederations, Infantino was among the first to pay homage before Pele's open casket, which was displayed in the middle of the field at Vila Belmiro stadium.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fia-boss-mohammed-ben-sulayem-wants-to-start-process-for-more-teams-to-enter-f1-549007">FIA boss Mohammed Ben Sulayem wants to start process for more teams to enter F1</a>

"We're here with great sadness," Infantino said. "Pele is eternal. He's a global icon of football." FIFA had already flown the flags of the world at half-mast Friday outside its headquarters in Zurich in honor of Pele, whom the organization has named as the greatest player of the 20th century.

Pele, the only player in history to win three World Cups, died at a Sao Paulo hospital after a long battle with cancer. Monday's wake will be followed by a funeral procession through the streets of Santos Tuesday, then a private interment ceremony.

FIFA will ask all the world's countries to name a stadium for Brazilian football legend Pele, the head of the sport's governing body, Gianni Infantino, said Monday at the late icon's wake.

FIFA will ask all the world's countries to name a stadium for Brazilian football legend Pele, the head of the sport's governing body, Gianni Infantino, said Monday at the late icon's wake. Infantino was in the city of Santos, Brazil, to pay his final respects to the player widely considered the greatest of all time, who died Thursday at the age of 82. "We’re going to ask every country in the world to name one of their football stadiums with the name of Pele," Infantino told journalists at the Vila Belmiro, the stadium where the player known as "The King" first exploded onto the world stage with his exploits for his longtime club, Santos FC. Attending the 24-hour wake along with the heads of the South American and Brazilian football confederations, Infantino was among the first to pay homage before Pele's open casket, which was displayed in the middle of the field at Vila Belmiro stadium. Also read: FIA boss Mohammed Ben Sulayem wants to start process for more teams to enter F1 "We're here with great sadness," Infantino said. "Pele is eternal. He's a global icon of football." FIFA had already flown the flags of the world at half-mast Friday outside its headquarters in Zurich in honor of Pele, whom the organization has named as the greatest player of the 20th century. Pele, the only player in history to win three World Cups, died at a Sao Paulo hospital after a long battle with cancer. Monday's wake will be followed by a funeral procession through the streets of Santos Tuesday, then a private interment ceremony.

FIFA to ask all countries to name a stadium for Pele, says Gianni Infantino

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