FIFA denies Gianni Infantino role in Vancouver motorcade request row

Canadian authorities have rejected claims that Gianni Infantino personally sought an elite police escort during the ongoing FIFA Congress 2026 Vancouver, after FIFA issued a clarification addressing the controversy.

The initial reports, first published by Global BC News, indicated that organisers had requested a high-level motorcade escort for the FIFA president – one typically reserved for top global dignitaries.

The Vancouver Police Department declined the request, citing cost implications and policy guidelines, noting that such an operation would require significant public resources.

However, in a fresh update, a FIFA spokesperson has distanced the president from the situation.

“FIFA never requested a specific level of police motorcade for the FIFA President. 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 further clarified that logistical arrangements were handled at the local level:

“In line with previous arrangements for such events, FWC26 Canada, as local organisers, liaised with authorities requesting support in relation to all delegates, guests and stakeholders.”

FIFA also declined to go into specifics regarding security protocols but expressed appreciation for local cooperation:

“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.”

The development shifts the focus from the FIFA president to local organisers of the 2026 World Cup preparations in Canada, suggesting that any requests made were part of broader event coordination rather than a personal demand.

Despite the disagreement, proceedings at the FIFA Congress continue as scheduled, with global football stakeholders gathered to deliberate on key issues shaping the game.