New Delhi: Gianni Infantino, FIFA’s president, is dodging in-person scrutiny by holding a virtual draw for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. This decision lets him sidestep a potentially intense media spotlight that would’ve raised questions about FIFA’s recent, controversial decision to award Saudi Arabia hosting rights for the 2034 World Cup.
With the European qualifying draw scheduled as an online event on 13 December, two days after Saudi Arabia’s selection is set to be formally confirmed in a virtual congress, Infantino is keeping FIFA’s doors closed to the press.
Infantino has faced mounting pressure regarding Saudi Arabia’s unopposed bid for the 2034 tournament and his perceived close ties with Saudi officials. The process itself, held without a competitive vote, left critics questioning the transparency of FIFA’s decision-making.
Yet Infantino, who hasn’t given a press conference since his re-election in March 2023, appears to be steering clear of these questions entirely by removing the traditional public draw ceremony from FIFA’s calendar.
🗣️ Remember when Gianni Infantino completely lost his head before the 2022 World Cup… pic.twitter.com/QOuz9Bqti4
— Football Tweet ⚽ (@Football__Tweet) November 13, 2024
World Cup draws have often been live events, attended by high-profile guests and held in the host country. For instance, the 2018 draw in St Petersburg saw Russian President Vladimir Putin as a guest. This time, the switch to a virtual event raises eyebrows, with critics noting the convenient timing to avoid media scrutiny. FIFA claims the decision supports environmental efforts by reducing air travel, but others see it as an excuse to control the narrative.
Infantino’s choice comes amidst a wave of criticism over FIFA’s recent actions, including the expanded 2025 Club World Cup in Saudi Arabia. Many national football associations expected a live draw in Zurich, but FIFA’s new direction allows the organisation to sidestep further backlash over its dealings with Saudi Arabia. The Football Association, meanwhile, might see this virtual format as a relief, as incoming England manager Thomas Tuchel’s delayed start until January would’ve complicated an in-person ceremony.
By moving the draw online, Infantino avoids facing the tough questions that have piled up around FIFA’s recent actions and, in doing so, maintains tight control over the message FIFA sends.
FIFA’s decision to go virtual for the 2026 World Cup draw allows Infantino to avoid media scrutiny over Saudi Arabia’s hosting of the 2034 event. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
