FIFA President Infantino Joins Trump Saudi Visit, Reschedules Council Meeting

FIFA President Gianni Infantino will join U.S. President Donald Trump on his Middle East diplomatic tour, including visits to Saudi Arabia and Qatar, leading FIFA to reschedule its Council meeting from an in-person session in Paraguay to an online meeting. This marks a rare departure from tradition, as Infantino is expected to miss several key in-person FIFA Congress events, sparking criticism from football officials who view his absence as disrespectful to member federations. Infantino’s close relationships with both Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman underline the intertwining of football diplomacy with international politics, especially with Saudi Arabia hosting the 2034 World Cup and the U.S. co-hosting the 2026 tournament. The rescheduling allows Infantino to attend significant geopolitical summits and investment forums during Trump's state visit, underscoring FIFA's strategic engagement with world leaders ahead of upcoming global tournaments. Despite the Council meeting shift, the 75th FIFA Congress will proceed as planned in Paraguay, focusing on governance and preparations for the 2026 World Cup. Infantino has defended his priorities by emphasizing the importance of maintaining strong ties with the U.S. president to ensure the success of major FIFA events hosted there.