Gianni Infantino: “FIFA Cannot Solve Geopolitical Conflicts, But It Can Use the Power of Football”
The President of the International Association Football Federation (FIFA), Giovanni Vincenzo Infantino, has spoken out on the power of football in the middle of a disagreement involving two World Cup participants.
During the online FIFA Council meeting in Zurich, Switzerland, Giovanni Infantino urged all World Cup participants to compete with fair play and mutual respect.
The 23rd FIFA World Cup is set to begin in a few days, but Iran’s participation is uncertain, particularly since Mehdi Taj, head of the Iranian Football Federation, has stated that they will refuse entry into the United States of America.
The discussion revolved around Infantino’s unwavering dedication to peace and unity, as well as a decision on the Palestine sport Association’s proposal, the largest worldwide development initiative to improve and strengthen rights for women working in sport.
Infantino stated, “FIFA can’t solve geopolitical conflicts, but we are committed to using the power of football and the FIFA World Cup to build bridges and promote peace as our thoughts are with those who are suffering as a consequence of the ongoing wars.”
The president confirmed the scheduled continental play-off, which will take place from March 26th to March 31st to cap up the campaign with 48 countries participating.
“FIFA is looking forward to all teams participating in the FIFA World Cup to compete in a spirit of fair play and mutual respect. We have a schedule. We will soon have the 48 competing teams confirmed, and we want the FIFA World Cup to go ahead as scheduled,” Infantino stressed.
FIFA will continue to promote dialogue and offer mediation between the Palestine Football Association and the Israel Football Association at an operational level, following a decision on a proposal made by the Palestine Football Association.
Story by Atakorah (Pramaso)
