FIFA President Gianni Infantino emphasized on Thursday that football is not equipped to resolve geopolitical conflicts, amid growing calls to suspend Israel due to the ongoing Palestinian crisis.
During a FIFA Council meeting, Infantino highlighted the organization’s dedication to fostering peace and solidarity, especially given the current turmoil in Gaza.
“Football holds a unique power to unite people across divisions,” Infantino remarked. “Our hearts go out to those affected by the numerous conflicts worldwide, and the foremost message football can deliver at this moment is one of harmony and togetherness.”
He further explained, “While FIFA cannot directly address geopolitical disputes, it has a responsibility to advance the sport globally by leveraging football’s unifying, educational, cultural, and humanitarian influence.”
In 2022, FIFA imposed a ban on Russia following its military invasion of Ukraine, despite Russia having hosted the World Cup just four years prior.
Recently, Lise Klaveness, president of the Norwegian Football Federation, voiced her support for a similar suspension of Israel. “If Russia is excluded, then Israel should be as well-that is my personal stance,” she stated.
Norway is scheduled to face Israel in a 2026 World Cup qualifying match in Oslo on October 11.
Currently, Israel holds third place in their qualifying group with nine points, level with second-placed Italy, while Norway leads the group with 15 points.