Gianni Infantino's Private Jet Use Fuels Massive Carbon Emissions at World Cup

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has faced criticism for flying his private jet to attend multiple World Cup matches across North America. He appeared at ten matches over seven days, travelling between venues in Mexico, the United States and Canada. An investigative report revealed he logged about 600,000 kilometres on his jet over the previous three years.

French carbon‑footprint consultancy Greenly estimates that a single hour of flight on Infantino’s jet produces roughly the same CO₂ as an average person does in a year. If Infantino were to travel daily between two venues up to the quarter‑finals and then to the final, the jet could emit 300‑500 tonnes of CO₂, equivalent to the annual emissions of 55 French citizens. Greenpeace activist John Hocevar condemned the travel as sending the wrong message on climate responsibility.

FIFA defended the trips, saying its officials choose the most efficient and cost‑effective travel options, whether commercial or private. The scrutiny comes ahead of the 2030 World Cup, which will be hosted by Morocco, Spain and Portugal, with three matches scheduled in South America, potentially increasing future travel demands.