A BBC investigation has caused FIFA President Gianni Infantino to face a wave of criticism for continuously using a private jet, causing a negative impact on the environment.
Amidst the vibrant atmosphere of the 2026 World Cup, a BBC investigation has put FIFA President Gianni Infantino at the center of controversy, not because of professional matters but due to business trips by private jet.
According to the BBC, since June 11, Mr. Infantino has attended 24 matches, set foot in 16 cities, and traveled more than 50,000 km. To meet the packed schedule, the head of the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) used a Gulfstream private jet, making a total of 27 flights with more than 66 hours in the air. Even on some days, he traveled by plane up to three times.
The BBC stated that the emissions from these flights are equivalent to the annual carbon footprint of about 78 people. The above figure quickly raised mixed opinions, as FIFA has repeatedly emphasized the goal of sustainable development and reducing environmental impact.
In its sustainable development strategy, FIFA once committed to “contribute its share of responsibility” in the effort to respond to climate change. However, President Infantino’s frequent use of private jets leaves that commitment called into question.
The environmental organization Greenpeace has spoken out criticizing the FIFA President’s trips. Besides, environmental experts assess that private jets can generate emissions up to 50 times greater than trains over the same travel distance.
The data published by the BBC is sparking a debate about the consistency between FIFA’s environmental protection commitments and the way the head of this organization travels throughout the 2026 World Cup.
