FIFA President Gianni Infantino signs Russian flag at World Cup

During the Canada‑Qatar group match at the World Cup held in North America, FIFA president Gianni Infantino sat beside Canadian premier Mark Carney. A Russian fan handed them a Russian flag, and both officials signed it. The fan later reported Infantino’s response in Russian, “Dobrze, dziękuję,” and said security staff were courteous.

The gesture sparked criticism because Russia has been barred from international football since February 2022 due to its invasion of Ukraine. Russian media praised the act as a sign of goodwill, while observers warned it undermines sanctions and could inflame tensions involving Ukraine and other European nations.