FIFA President Gianni Infantino has faced criticism for using a private jet to travel between 2026 World Cup matches across North America.
The travel comes under scrutiny because it contradicts FIFA’s public pledges regarding sustainability and the environment. Critics argue that the high carbon emissions from frequent private aviation undermine the organization's stated climate goals.
Infantino has attended 24 matches [1] since the tournament began on June 11, 2026 [2]. To facilitate this schedule, he has utilized private air travel to move between venues in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
Reports on the exact number of flights vary based on the counting method. One report states Infantino has taken 27 flights, including repositioning flights [1]. Another report specifies that he has flown 18 times when excluding those repositioning flights [2].
"Not counting repositioning flights, since 6/11 (the start of the World Cup), FIFA President Gianni Infantino has flown 18 ..." said a report from Yahoo Sports [2].
The scale of the travel has led to comparisons with high-profile entertainers known for their carbon footprints. The contrast between the luxury of private jet travel and the global urgency of climate change has fueled the backlash against the FIFA leader.
FIFA has not issued a formal response to the specific flight counts, but the organization has previously emphasized its commitment to reducing the environmental impact of its global events. The 2026 tournament's expansive geography, spanning three countries, has increased the logistical challenges of attending multiple matches.
“Gianni Infantino has attended 24 matches since the tournament began.”
This controversy highlights the tension between the logistical demands of a massive, multi-national sporting event and the environmental standards the organization claims to uphold. As FIFA promotes sustainability to the public, the visible carbon footprint of its top leadership creates a perceived hypocrisy that may damage the organization's credibility with climate-conscious fans and international regulators.
