Gianni Infantino to dodge spotlight with 2026 World Cup draw held virtually

Infantino has not given a press conference since he was re-elected Fifa president in March 2023.

Wed, 13 Nov, 2024 - 09:31

Matt Hughes

Gianni Infantino will avoid any scrutiny of the controversial decision to give the 2034 World Cup to Saudi Arabia next month after Fifa opted to stage the qualifying draw for the 2026 tournament as a virtual event.

Saudi Arabia’s successful 2034 bid will be confirmed by acclamation at an extraordinary Fifa congress, to be held online on 11 December, while the Guardian has learned that the draw for European qualifying for the 2026 World Cup two days later will also take place remotely.