Infantino Defends FIFA’s 2034 World Cup Award to Saudi Arabia

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has defended the decision to award Saudi Arabia the 2034 World Cup, emphasizing the nation’s hosting of global football events as a positive step despite human rights concerns. Infantino also discussed his relationship with former U.S. President Donald Trump as instrumental for World Cup successes, and voiced hope for Russia’s return to international football amid peace negotiations related to Ukraine.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has offered a defense of the organization’s decision to award Saudi Arabia the 2034 World Cup. This decision, made during a FIFA Congress in December, has faced criticism due to the nation’s human rights record and treatment of migrant workers. Infantino asserted that this move brings football to a global stage, uniting various regions over the next decade.

Infantino emphasized the positive nature of this decision, stating, “There was a Congress decision, uniting the entire world. I think it was a very positive step for football, bringing, in eight years, football (from) all over the world, hosting everyone.” He noted the high score of the Saudi bid in evaluations, calling it a medium risk regarding human rights.

The FIFA chief also addressed his rapport with former United States President Donald Trump. Infantino justified this relationship as crucial for the World Cup’s success and highlighted upcoming events like the 2026 World Cup in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada. He mentioned Trump’s presidency during the bidding process for these events as significant.

In addition, Infantino commented on the possibility of Russia returning to international football contingent upon peace negotiations related to its invasion of Ukraine. He expressed optimism for a future where all nations could participate, stating, “We all hope that peace talks will be successful… if there is a little role that football can play, once peace is there, then of course, we’ll play our role.”

In summary, Gianni Infantino has defended FIFA’s decision to host the 2034 World Cup in Saudi Arabia, viewing it as a unifying step for global football. He has reaffirmed the importance of his relationship with Donald Trump for the success of upcoming World Cup events and expressed hope for peace that could allow Russia’s reintegration into international football. Infantino’s comments reflect FIFA’s broader vision of promoting the sport globally, despite criticism regarding human rights issues.

Original Source: www.breakingnews.ie