Tom Shiel

FIFA President Gianni Infantino traveled extensively during the 2026 World Cup, attending 24 matches across North America while a private jet linked to him undertook 27 flights covering over 50,000 kilometers. Estimated emissions from these flights reached around 516 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent, drawing criticism from climate experts who argue the travel contradicts FIFA’s sustainability commitments. Despite FIFA’s stated goals to cut emissions by 2030 and reach net-zero by 2040, analysts question the organization’s environmental credibility, especially in light of concerns over the overall carbon footprint of the expanded tournament.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s extensive private jet travel across the 2026 World Cup host cities generated an estimated 516 tons of CO2e during the group stage, equal to the annual emissions of about 78 people. Flight‑tracking data links 27 flights to his appearances at matches and media events, including long‑haul trips between Vancouver, Miami, Seattle and Los Angeles. Experts criticize the environmental impact and view the travel as contradictory to FIFA’s sustainability commitments, which include emissions‑reduction targets and measures aimed at greener tournaments. Prior assessments warn that the 2026 World Cup could become the most carbon‑intensive to date, despite FIFA’s stated climate goals.