Infantino delivered his speech to the Council of Europe in Strasbourg, where the commission’s report was discussed “Football Administration: Economics and Values” went. The controversial president of the world football association said: “We see football moving in a direction where a few have everything and the majority have nothing. In Europe, the World Cup is played twice a week because the best players play in Europe.” Even within Europe there is a huge imbalance. The vast majority of Europe don’t see the best players and don’t compete in the top competitions.
There are many questions in the room
The change in the rhythm of the World Cup has been a major issue in football for months – the European Football Union and the South American Confederation Conmebol are against it. So far, the World Championships have been held every four years, Infantino’s big goal is to halve the rhythm.
To underline this goal, the FIFA President stated verbatim: “We need to get the whole world involved. We need to give hope to Africans that they don’t have to come across the Mediterranean to maybe have a better life here, or, more likely, death at sea. We need to give them opportunities and dignity. “
Dependent on voices from Africa
This statement caused widespread outrage. Many people took the words as if Infantino were belittling life in Africa compared to life in Europe. The question of what a shortened World Cup rhythm should have to do with a life-threatening flight across the Mediterranean is also unresolved. Equally puzzling is the notion that following Infantino’s suggestions would give the African people opportunities and dignity.