Authorities in Vancouver have rejected a request by FIFA to grant its president, Gianni Infantino, a level-four motorcade escort—security typically reserved for the Pope—according to Canadian reports.
The request was made ahead of FIFA’s annual congress in the city, with organizers seeking a full motorcade that would allow Infantino’s convoy to bypass traffic lights and move through blocked roads in downtown Vancouver.
Such security arrangements are considered just below those provided to the Pope, on par with the U.S. president, and higher than those typically accorded to Canada’s Prime Minister, Mark Carney.
In response, the City of Vancouver stated that any transport arrangements would be “appropriate, measured, and consistent” with how the city manages major international events.
This is not the first time such a request has been declined. A similar appeal for a motorcade during the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in New Zealand was also rejected by local authorities based on standard procedures.
Meanwhile, the FIFA Congress, set to begin Thursday, comes amid criticism from Lise Klaveness, who has called for the abolition of FIFA’s controversial “peace prize.” She argued that such recognition falls outside FIFA’s mandate and should be left to institutions like the Nobel Committee.
Infantino’s growing ties with global political figures, including former U.S. President Donald Trump, have also drawn attention in recent months, adding to scrutiny surrounding FIFA’s leadership and governance decisions.
Independent.co.uk