FIFA President Gianni Infantino has stated that while football cannot directly resolve global conflicts, the sport must continue to promote peace, unity, and solidarity amid ongoing crises, including the war in Gaza.
Speaking at a FIFA Council meeting in Zurich, Infantino emphasized football’s responsibility in a divided world:
“At FIFA, we are committed to using the power of football to bring people together. The most important message the game can send today is one of peace and unity.”
He acknowledged that FIFA cannot intervene in geopolitical disputes but insisted the organization will uphold football’s educational, cultural, and humanitarian values worldwide.
FIFA is currently facing growing calls to suspend Israel from international football, with Palestinian officials and rights groups urging action over the Gaza conflict. While the issue remains under review, Infantino has maintained that such matters require careful consensus with regional confederations.
Just a day earlier, FIFA Vice President Victor Montagliani highlighted that Israel’s participation in European competitions falls under UEFA’s jurisdiction. He stressed that decisions must be handled regionally, not solely by FIFA.
Meanwhile, Israel remains in contention for World Cup qualification, sitting third in Group I of the European qualifiers for the 2026 tournament in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Amnesty International has also joined the debate, calling on FIFA and UEFA to suspend the Israel Football Association.
As global tensions rise, Infantino reiterated FIFA’s position that while football cannot end wars, it can serve as a unifying force that spreads a message of hope, peace, and solidarity across borders.
Credit: Reuters
