EU Sports Commissioner Glen Micallef sharply criticized FIFA President Gianni Infantino, calling for greater clarity regarding fan safety at the 2026 World Cup and expressing reservations about the federation’s cooperation with initiatives supported by Donald Trump.

Micallef urged Infantino to strengthen the management of critical issues, stressing the need for clear safety guarantees ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which will take place in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

Concerns over fan safety

In an interview with Politico from Brussels, he expressed concerns about fan safety, particularly in light of the escalating conflict in the Middle East and the involvement of the United States.

He revealed that during his meeting with Infantino last month in Brussels, on the sidelines of a European football summit, he requested specific assurances for the protection of European fans traveling to North America.

However, he noted, there was no follow-up communication. “It was the first and only substantive exchange of views with President Infantino. I asked him to ensure the safety of those traveling for the World Cup. There was no further update,” he said, adding that the EU submitted a new request following the recent escalation of tensions.

Micallef emphasized that, given that one of the host countries is involved in an armed conflict, it is “entirely reasonable” to request clear public safety guarantees.

Concerns over FIFA’s cooperation with the “Gaza Peace Council”

He also expressed concern about FIFA’s cooperation with the “Gaza Peace Council,” an initiative supported by Donald Trump, noting that Europe prefers partnerships with multilateral organizations such as UNESCO and UNICEF.

“FIFA has a lot to explain on this issue,” he said, stressing the need to respect the international order. FIFA responded that safety is a “top priority” and expressed confidence in the governments of the host countries, emphasizing that a safe and welcoming environment will be ensured for all.

Safety issues

When asked whether FIFA is lagging on safety issues, Micallef limited himself to saying that “there is room for greater clarity.”

The 2026 World Cup, which will feature 48 teams, will begin on June 11 in Mexico City and will include 16 European countries. However, concerns are not limited to international tensions.

In the USA, there is concern over the presence of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) as part of security measures, while in Mexico, the situation remains tense following a wave of violence after the death of a cartel leader in the state of Jalisco, with Guadalajara hosting matches.

The European commissioner also addressed other international sports policy issues, such as the NBA proposal to create a European basketball league.

He opposed “closed league” models, noting that “the European sports model is based on open participation and competitive meritocracy.”

He said the creation of yet another such league “is not ideal,” though he left open the possibility of dialogue between the parties involved.

Finally, Micallef commented on Russia’s return to international sport, emphasizing that sports should not be used as a tool of political propaganda by countries involved in armed conflicts.

“I do not believe that sport should serve as a platform for propaganda for those responsible for aggressive wars,” he said, stressing the need for dialogue with international sports organizations.