FIFA president Gianni Infantino was unaware of a motorcade request for the FIFA Congress in Vancouver. The request, which was denied by Vancouver police, would have allowed Infantino's motorcade to bypass traffic regulations.
Key points
Gianni Infantino was unaware of the motorcade request.
The request was denied by Vancouver police.
The motorcade would have allowed bypassing of traffic regulations.
FIFA stated Infantino is not involved in transportation arrangements.
The request could have cost Vancouver taxpayers.
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Gianni InfantinoFIFAVancouver
FIFA has said that president Gianni Infantino was unaware of any request for a motorcade at the FIFA Congress in Vancouver this week.
Global News reported that Infantino's team requested a full motorcade escort, which would be one level below the pope and on par with the United States president.
The request would have allowed Infantino's motorcade to go through red lights and block off other vehicles. It also would have come at a cost to Vancouver taxpayers.
Per the report, Vancouver police denied the request.
In a statement provided to USA TODAY Sports, FIFA did not deny that the request was made, but said Infantino isn't involved with arrangements for his transportation or security.
"The FIFA President was not aware of, or involved in, any requests with authorities in relation to his transportation and security matters for the 76th FIFA Congress," the statement said.
“In line with previous arrangements for such events, FWC26 Canada, as local organizers, liaised with authorities requesting support in relation to all delegates, guests, and stakeholders.
“FIFA does not comment on transportation and security protocols involving the FIFA President and would like to thank law enforcement in Vancouver for their ongoing support this week."
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Q&A
Why was Gianni Infantino's motorcade request denied in Vancouver?
The Vancouver police denied the request for a motorcade escort that would allow Infantino to bypass traffic regulations.
What privileges would Gianni Infantino's motorcade have had?
The motorcade would have allowed Infantino to go through red lights and block off other vehicles, similar to arrangements for high-profile figures like the pope.
Did FIFA confirm that a motorcade request was made for Infantino?
FIFA did not deny that the request was made but stated that Infantino was not involved in transportation or security arrangements.
What implications does the motorcade request have for Vancouver taxpayers?
The motorcade request would have incurred costs for Vancouver taxpayers, although the specific financial implications were not detailed.
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A statement from the Vancouver mayor’s office read: “Any transportation arrangements that are made will be appropriate, measured and consistent with how Vancouver safely hosts major international events.”
Infantino has seen a similar request denied in the past, with New Zealand police doing so during the 2023 Women's World Cup.
FIFA is holding its annual meeting this week in Vancouver, which is one of the 16 cities that will host World Cup matches this summer.
The 2026 World Cup will take place from June 11 to July 19, with Canada joining the United States and Mexico as host countries.
