FIFA and politics: Infantino’s close relationship with Trump
Juan José Saldaña
January 25, 2025

The relationship between Gianni Infantino and Donald Trump has become one of the most controversial connections in international sports. The FIFA president has displayed an unusually close rapport with the former U.S. president, transcending traditional boundaries of political neutrality in sports. This unique bond has developed progressively since 2018, when Trump was still in office, and the host for the 2026 World Cup was decided. It has solidified as a diplomatic strategy that extends beyond the usual protocols of international sports organizations.

During Trump’s inauguration as President of the United States, Infantino not only attended but was among the closest guests to the new leader. This presence reflects a strategy that the FIFA president has meticulously built, focusing on the major football events set to take place in the U.S. The connection between these two figures exemplifies how political relationships can significantly influence the organization of international sports events, sparking both expectations and controversies within the global football community.

A STRATEGIC BOND?

The relationship between Infantino and Trump has deep roots, stemming from strategic meetings at various international venues, including economic summits and diplomatic events. Infantino has had frequent interactions with Trump, ranging from meetings at the White House and rounds of golf to public statements of mutual recognition. This proximity has sparked widespread debate about the intersection of politics and sports, challenging the traditional neutrality that international sports organizations have historically claimed to uphold.

For FIFA, the relationship is primarily strategic and economic: the United States will host the 2025 Club World Cup and co-host the 2026 World Cup, representing a vital sports and economic market for global football. Trump, in turn, has publicly supported these events, even mentioning them in his political speeches. This has led to enthusiastic remarks from Infantino, who openly admires the former president and sees this relationship as an opportunity to expand football’s global influence.

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