Sport: Soccer Country: United States Category: Playoffs

Critics call out Infantino's jet travel during World Cup matches

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 21, 2026, 6:19 AM

Last updated Jun 21, 2026

Critics call out Infantino's jet travel during World Cup matches

Summary

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has attended 10 matches in seven days at the 2026 World Cup, utilizing a private jet for travel across multiple cities including Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Seattle. Environmentalists have expressed concerns about the impact of his multiple flights, estimating a potential carbon output of 300 to 500 tons over the tournament. FIFA defends Infantino's travel choices as efficient and cost-effective, while experts highlight the organization's role in promoting a 'sustainability paradox' due to its heavy reliance on air travel. The issue is expected to continue as upcoming tournaments maintain a similar format.

Source Links

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Key Details

•Infantino flies to matches in Mexico and the U.S. during the World Cup.
•Environmentalists criticize the carbon emissions from his private jet usage.
•FIFA states it selects travel options based on efficiency and cost.
•Experts point out FIFA's operational model relies on high-emission travel.
•Upcoming tournaments could face similar criticisms regarding sustainability.

Latest Updates

6:19 AMYahoo Sports — FIFA draws criticism as Infantino clocks up air miles at World Cup

What they're saying

"
FIFA president Gianni Infantino has been a busy man at this World Cup but his unquenchable thirst to pack in as many matches as possible is causing unrest among environmentalists who are questioning his indifference to climate change."Having executives take daily flights on highly polluting private jets doesn't exactly send the message that FIFA recognizes either the cause or its responsibility to be part of the solution to climate change," he posted on Instagram.
— Yahoo Sports

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