Gianni Infantino is facing strong reactions even before he lands in Canada. The FIFA president, who is 56, had asked for a very high-level police escort during his upcoming visit to Vancouver. This visit is part of FIFA’s annual congress and also linked to early preparations for the 2026 World Cup. But the request did not go through. Vancouver police said no to giving him what is known as a “level four” security escort. This kind of escort is usually saved for world leaders like presidents or the Pope. It allows a motorcade to move through traffic without stopping, even at red lights, and can block roads for other people.The city’s mayor’s office also supported this decision. According to a report by The Athletic, officials made it clear that any travel plan for Infantino would be “appropriate, measured and consistent with how Vancouver safely hosts major international events.” Police also pointed out that such a high-level escort would cost a lot of public money. As soon as the news came out, it spread quickly online. Many fans were not happy with the request and openly criticized it. At the same time, the issue has added more pressure around World Cup costs, which were already a big concern in Vancouver.
Gianni Infantino security request rejected in Vancouver as World Cup costs and fan criticism grow
This situation is not just about one request. It connects to a bigger issue that people in Vancouver are already talking about, the rising cost of hosting the World Cup. Reports suggest the city may spend around $438 million on security for the tournament. That number has worried many locals.Emily Lowan, leader of the Green Party of British Columbia, has already spoken about these growing expenses. She raised concerns about what she called “ballooning costs of security” and how it could affect the city. So when news came out about Infantino asking for a top-level escort, it did not sit well with many people.On social media, fans reacted strongly. One user wrote, “The constant arrogant lack of self-awareness of that guy is stunning.” Another said, “Infantino is now elevating himself to head of state level. All along I thought this guy was humble.” These reactions show that many people felt the request was too much.This is also not the first time something like this has happened. Back in 2023, during the Women’s World Cup in New Zealand, FIFA made a similar request for a police motorcade. That request was also rejected. So, this seems to be a pattern, and authorities in different countries are not agreeing with it.At the same time, there are other worries around the World Cup. Ticket prices have become a big talking point. Many fans feel they are too expensive and fear they might not be able to attend matches. A document dated April 10, reported by The Athletic, showed that only 40,934 tickets were sold for the USA vs Paraguay match set for June 12 at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles.That number is lower than expected, especially when compared to another match at the same stadium. The Iran vs New Zealand game, scheduled just three days later, has sold around 50,661 tickets, nearly 10,000 more. The stadium can hold 69,650 people, so there is still a gap. It is also not fully clear if the USA vs Paraguay ticket count includes special or hospitality tickets.All of this shows that FIFA is dealing with more than one challenge right now. From security requests to rising costs and ticket concerns, the pressure is building as the World Cup gets closer.
