In a move that has stirred controversy, FIFA President Gianni Infantino openly declared his support for Inter Milan ahead of their UEFA Champions League semifinal second leg against FC Barcelona. Speaking at the Miami Grand Prix, Infantino stated, “Everyone knows I’m an Inter fan,” reaffirming his long-standing allegiance to the Italian club.
The first leg of the semifinal ended in a thrilling 3-3 draw at Barcelona’s Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, setting the stage for a decisive match at Milan’s Giuseppe Meazza Stadium. Infantino’s public endorsement of Inter Milan has raised eyebrows, with critics questioning the appropriateness of the FIFA President expressing favoritism in such a high-stakes encounter. Some fans and analysts have voiced concerns about the potential impact on perceptions of impartiality, especially regarding officiating decisions.
This incident adds to a series of controversies surrounding Infantino’s tenure. Recently, he faced criticism for missing key meetings at FIFA’s annual congress in Paraguay to attend events in the Gulf with former U.S. President Donald Trump. Human Rights Watch has called for transparency regarding the purpose and outcomes of that trip, citing concerns over FIFA’s governance.
As the football world turns its attention to the upcoming semifinal, the spotlight remains on Infantino’s comments and their implications for FIFA’s image. While personal club affiliations are not uncommon among football executives, the public nature of Infantino’s declaration has sparked a broader conversation about the responsibilities of leadership and the importance of maintaining neutrality in global football governance.
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