Sport: Soccer Country: Qatar Category: Scores & Results

FIFA mandates high-profile attendee shots during World Cup matches

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 13, 2026, 10:00 PM

Last updated Jul 13, 2026

Summary

FIFA has reportedly mandated that broadcasts of World Cup matches include shots of high-profile attendees during each half. This directive, aimed at showcasing 'the highest-ranking officials' and 'VVIPs', has led to increased visibility of celebrities and FIFA president Gianni Infantino. Infantino's attendance at two matches daily has been a particular focus, with broadcast guidelines emphasizing his appearance during games. FIFA clarified that while it is standard practice to show attendees, they did not specify shot directives for Infantino this year, although he has been frequently featured on screen. This practice appears to continue from the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where similar guidelines were noted.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

What We Know

•FIFA requires broadcasting of dignitaries during each half of matches.
•High-profile attendees include heads of state and celebrities.
•Infantino aims to attend multiple matches daily.
•Practices continue from the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
•FIFA states no specific shots of Infantino were mandated.

Latest Updates

10:00 PMYahoo Sports — FIFA reportedly mandates shots of high-profile attendees during each half of World Cup matches

What they're saying

"
You might’ve noticed that this year’s World Cup broadcasts have featured a heavy dose of on-screen cameos from celebrities, politicians, and the omnipresent FIFA president Gianni Infantino. And that’s by design. According to a recent report by Adam Crafton in The Athletic, FIFA mandate that its production partner, Host Broadcast Services, the company that produces…
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Soccer