Traditionally, the FIFA Congress is a multi-day program where member federations, representing soccer's six continental bodies, hold caucuses and participate in the main meeting, often referred to as the sport's parliament. Infantino's absence from this key gathering has raised eyebrows.
FIFA's official statement explained that "the FIFA president has accepted invitations to attend a series of important events with world leaders, where FIFA World Cups will also be discussed." Additionally, Infantino is expected to visit Qatar, the 2022 World Cup host, which is also on Trump's Middle East itinerary.
Infantino's close relationship with Trump, solidified through numerous meetings since December, including a recent White House meeting regarding the 2026 World Cup co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, has become increasingly apparent. His frequent interactions with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, whose kingdom will host the 2034 World Cup, further underscore his strong ties with the region. Infantino played a pivotal role in securing Saudi Arabia's uncontested hosting rights last December.
While Infantino is expected to return from the Middle East in time for the FIFA Congress on Thursday, the timing of his trip has necessitated a change in the schedule of FIFA's ruling council meeting. Originally planned for Tuesday in Asuncion, Paraguay, the meeting has been moved to an online session on Friday, allowing Infantino to proceed with his geopolitical engagements.
Infantino and FIFA have consistently emphasized the importance of maintaining positive relations with the Trump administration to ensure the safety and success of the 2026 World Cup. This stance contrasts with the absence of formal meetings with former President Joe Biden during his term.
Infantino's close political and financial ties with Saudi Arabia have been developing since before the 2018 World Cup in Russia. In Riyadh, during the FIFA delegates' presence in Paraguay, Infantino is slated to attend a Saudi-U.S. investment forum, where World Cup projects will be a focal point.
Saudi Arabia is investing heavily in infrastructure, including stadiums and urban development, in preparation for the 2034 tournament. Infantino's attendance at similar conferences, such as the one in Miami Beach in February, where he interacted with figures like Jared Kushner, Elon Musk, and Saudi officials, highlights his engagement with the kingdom's initiatives.
However, concerns have been voiced privately by soccer officials regarding Infantino's increasing focus on global politics. UEFA, the European soccer body, acknowledged being informed of the council meeting's rescheduling but refrained from commenting on the reasons, directing inquiries to FIFA.
Trump's planned tour of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, initially intended as his first overseas trip since his purported second term began, adds another layer of political significance to Infantino's concurrent engagements in the region.