Controversy ahead of FIFA Congress: Exceptional security demands for Gianni Infantino

FIFA has requested unusually high security measures for its president, Gianni Infantino, for the 76th FIFA Congress, scheduled for today in Vancouver, revealed the Canadian publication Global BC. According to the cited source, two days before the event, FIFA requested a "full Level 4 escort” from local authorities for Gianni Infantino's official trips.

In practical terms, this level of protection would allow: the official convoy to pass through red traffic lights; temporary traffic blocking for other participants; measures similar to those applied to high-ranking leaders under special protection.

• Level comparable to that of world leaders

According to Global BC, the level requested is: one level below that granted to the Pope;

equivalent to the protection offered to President Donald Trump; superior to that reserved for the Canadian prime minister. This comparison has generated reactions and questions about the proportionality of the request, given the nature of the event.

Vancouver police have refused FIFA's request, considering it excessive.

The local government has said that it will provide: "appropriate, measured transportation, consistent with Vancouver's ability to safely host major international events." This position suggests that Canadian officials want to maintain a balance between security and the normal functioning of the city.

• Image tensions for FIFA

The request comes at a time when FIFA is already under international scrutiny due to controversies regarding: the organization of major competitions;

human rights policies; administrative expenses; relations with host country authorities. For observers, the episode raises new questions about the size of FIFA's protocol and security apparatus. The FIFA Congress in Vancouver is taking place in an important context for world football, ahead of key decisions related to: the 2026 World Cup;

the financing of federations; global development of sport.

The refusal of Canadian authorities to accept FIFA's demands highlights the differences in approach between global sports organizers and local governments, at a time when public image and the proportionality of security measures are becoming increasingly sensitive topics.