Infantino's Mishap at FIFA Congress Sparks Outrage and a Walkout Led by Neuendorf
Controversy Erupts Following Coffee Break Encounter between Infantino and Unnamed Individuals at FIFA Congress
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Gianni Infantino, FIFA President, dodge punctuality at the FIFA Congress, sending hundreds of delegates into a frenzy as they waited for his arrival. In response, a massive walkout was initiated by UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin and DFB chief Bernd Neuendorf, who stormed off the podium following Infantino's delayed entrance.
"This is worrisome. We expect FIFA to clarify the situation to its members and ensure the voices of member associations are heard and respected in the future," claimed Lise Klaveness, Norwegian federation chief, in an interview with Norwegian media, adding that she had walked out in unison with her European counterparts. UEFA remained vague in their comments.
The congress, a vital gathering for the football community, got underway over three hours late due to Infantino's tardiness. He justified his actions, claiming, "I had crucial talks with leading politicians and entrepreneurs. I felt the need to attend, representing the entire football community." Infantino cited "a small flight issue" as the reason for his tardiness.
Sports Infantino's Diplomatic Debacle: Trump Mixes Up World Cups Previously, Infantino had skipped official engagements and even missed the initial start time for the congress. The Sports Show reported that the FIFA chief only entered Brazilian airspace at the designated start time, while a Qatar Airways private jet is said to have ferried the world association's boss to Paraguay after a refueling stop in Nigeria.
Infantino under Scrutiny
The international delegates had already embarked on their journey to South America earlier in the week. They were ultimately left waiting on Infantino for extended periods on Thursday, with the organization vaguely citing "unforeseen circumstances". Forbes magazine labelled the incident a "modern history first".
Before the congress, Infantino had accompanied the US president on his inaugural major foreign trip, eliciting criticism. "We are genuinely taken aback. His presence is crucial during the days we are present. This congress is essential for us," emphasized Klaveness regarding Infantino's absence before the event.
Klaveness clarified that she had not received official information regarding Infantino's schedule. *"If he's absent, it's concerning. Democracy is at play here," said Klaveness, expressing her concerns and inquiring about Infantino's actions, not just for the press but also for federation members.
After his visit to Saudi Arabia, Infantino was still in Qatar on Wednesday, where he took part in a ceremony with Trump and the Qatari emir. Infantino appeared to prioritize his proximity to Trump, who will be hosting the Club World Cup this summer and is involved in the 2026 World Cup plans, over a scheduled evening meal with Paraguay's state president.
Source: ntv.de, tsi/dpa/sid
Additional Insights:
- The search results do not directly indicate any specific scandal involving Bernd Neuendorf, Gianni Infantino, and Donald Trump's controversial trip. However, they do suggest that Neuendorf was part of a walkout at the FIFA Congress protesting Infantino's actions and commitment to the football community.
- The walkout and subsequent absence of key figures, including Bernd Neuendorf, raised questions about Infantino's behavior and the direction of FIFA.
- FIFA
- Gianni Infantino
- Football
- DFB
- Bernd Neuendorf
"Although the Commission has been asked to submit a proposal for a directive on the protection of the environment, it's disheartening to see football's governing body, FIFA, seemingly prioritize sports like football over environmental concerns, as evidenced by Infantino's tardy attendance at the FIFA Congress."
"Despite the UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin and DFB chief Bernd Neuendorf leading a walkout at the FIFA Congress in protest of Infantino's actions, one can't help but wonder if this incident will spur a shift in FIFA's priorities and foster a more responsible approach to environmental protection."
