FIFA President: “Cannot Solve Geopolitical Problems” Amid Calls for Israel Suspension Over Gaza Conflict

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has defended the organization’s stance on global conflicts, insisting that football “cannot solve geopolitical problems” such as the ongoing war in Gaza. His remarks come as FIFA faces mounting pressure from several football federations to suspend Israel from international competition.

Speaking after a FIFA Council meeting, Infantino reiterated the body’s humanitarian mission, stressing the importance of football as a force for unity. “Our thoughts are with those who are suffering in the many conflicts that exist around the world today,” he said. “FIFA cannot solve geopolitical problems, but it can and must promote football around the world by harnessing its unifying, educational, cultural, and humanitarian values.

Infantino’s statement has reignited debate over FIFA’s consistency in handling politically charged conflicts. Critics point to the organization’s swift 2022 decision to ban Russia from international competitions following the invasion of Ukraine. Many argue that the same principle should now apply to Israel, given the rising civilian toll in Gaza.

The strongest call yet came from Norwegian Football Federation president Lise Klaveness, who bluntly addressed the issue last week. “Personally, I think if Russia is out, Israel should be out too. That is my personal opinion,” Klaveness stated ahead of Norway’s World Cup qualifier against Israel scheduled for October 11.

Despite the precedent set in Russia’s case, Infantino’s remarks suggest FIFA is reluctant to apply the same sanction on Israel. Instead, the governing body is doubling down on its position that football should remain a bridge in divided times, not an arena for political disputes.

For now, Israel remains active in international competitions, while the debate over FIFA’s geopolitical role and its consistency in responding to conflicts continues to intensify.