FIFA President Gianni Infantino has issued an apology following backlash over comments he made about British football supporters.
Infantino came under criticism after speaking at the World Economic Forum in Switzerland last month, where he described it as “really special” that no British citizens were arrested during the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. The remarks drew a sharp response from the Football Supporters’ Association (FSA), which urged him to concentrate on making tickets affordable for the 2026 World Cup rather than making what it described as “cheap jokes” about fans.
Responding in an interview with Sky News, Infantino explained that his comments were meant to be light-hearted and to highlight the calm and orderly nature of the Qatar tournament. He apologised to football supporters in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, stressing that he had no intention of offending anyone. He also admitted he was wrong to imply that English fans “go around the world to riot,” noting that he is a strong admirer of English football.
The FIFA boss also defended the organisation’s decision to present US President Donald Trump with the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize ahead of the 2026 World Cup draw in December. According to Infantino, the award recognises individuals who have taken “exceptional and extraordinary actions for peace,” insisting that Trump merited the honour based on his involvement in conflict resolution efforts.
On broader policy issues, Infantino revealed that FIFA is open to reviewing the ban placed on Russian football clubs and national teams following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. He argued that the suspension had failed to deliver its intended outcome and suggested that allowing young Russian players to compete internationally could help ease tensions and frustration.
Infantino also dismissed calls for Israel to be banned from international football over the war in Gaza, saying FIFA should instead look at amending its statutes to prevent political boycotts. He maintained that countries should not be excluded from football competitions because of the actions of their political leaders, adding that the sport should remain a bridge for dialogue and connection.
Having served as FIFA president since 2016, Infantino reiterated that the organisation’s mission is to bring people together through football, even in times of global political conflict.