What was supposed to be a routine annual gathering of FIFA’s global leadership in Paraguay turned into a dramatic protest when members walked out during Gianni Infantino’s keynote speech.
And it all started because the FIFA president showed up hours late—fresh off a high-profile trip with U.S. President Donald Trump.
Infantino Prioritizes Middle East Trip With Trump
Instead of heading straight to Paraguay for the congress, Infantino had chosen to accompany Trump on a diplomatic visit to Qatar and Saudi Arabia.
The trip involved meetings with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman and Qatari Emir Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani—conversations Infantino insisted were vital for the future of football, particularly with upcoming World Cups set to be hosted in both regions.
After wrapping up the Middle East tour, Infantino took a private jet to Asuncion, Paraguay.
But by the time he arrived, hours had passed, tensions were high, and delegates were fed up.
A Walkout in Protest and Public Rebuke
When Infantino finally took the stage, the mood in the room had already soured.
Several key FIFA officials—eight members of the organization’s own ruling council, along with English FA chair Debbie Hewitt—got up and walked out as he began speaking.
The protest wasn’t subtle; it was a clear message.
Norway Football Federation president Lise Klaveness voiced her concerns publicly.
“It’s disappointing and concerning,” she said, referencing not only the delay but also the optics of Infantino prioritizing political engagements over FIFA’s own governance.
“We understand the frustration. The hosts in Paraguay deserved better.”
UEFA Slams “Political Priorities” Over Football Duties
UEFA didn’t mince words either. They issued a sharp statement criticizing the congress delay, saying it appeared to be caused purely by “private political interests.”
For many, Infantino’s actions blurred the lines between football leadership and global politics a little too much.
The decision to push back the congress by three hours sent logistical headaches rippling through the event.
Officials who had traveled from around the world felt blindsided, and the delay reignited broader frustrations with Infantino’s leadership style.
Infantino Apologizes But Defends His Actions
In his delayed address, Infantino tried to strike a balance between apology and justification.
“I want to start by saying sorry for the inconvenience and the late start,” he told the room.
He explained that key World Cup talks in the Middle East required his presence as the head of FIFA, referencing Qatar 2022, the upcoming Saudi-hosted 2034 World Cup, and the 2026 tournament across North America.
“I really believed I could make it on time,” he said, blaming the delay on flight complications. But for many in the room, the explanation didn’t cut it.
The Trump Factor Raises More Eyebrows
Infantino’s close relationship with Donald Trump has long been a talking point—and a controversial one at that.
The two have often been pictured together, especially with the U.S. preparing to co-host the 2026 World Cup alongside Canada and Mexico.
Just over a week ago, Infantino appeared at the White House during the launch of the Trump administration’s World Cup task force.
Trump himself has referred to Infantino as “a good friend for a long time,” and the FIFA boss has publicly said that this friendship is “crucial” to the tournament’s success.
A Serious Reputation Blow for FIFA’s President
This latest incident may further complicate Infantino’s standing within FIFA.
While he claims his trip was made to represent the global football community, many members are beginning to question whether his priorities are aligned with the best interests of the sport.
At a time when FIFA is trying to present a united front, especially with multiple major tournaments on the horizon, this episode has exposed clear fractures and growing discontent within the leadership.