Trump-Infantino 'bromance' tested by Middle East war

The conflict between the US and Israel against Iran poses a significant test to the bond between FIFA president Gianni Infantino and US President Donald Trump, with under three months until the World Cup, though common financial goals suggest their partnership will endure, according to experts.

Since their initial elections in 2016, Infantino and Trump have openly displayed their close rapport.

Trumps comeback to the White House in January 2025 has bolstered this connection, particularly with the World Cup finals set for the United States, Canada, and Mexico approaching.

Infantino attended Trumps inauguration and has frequently visited the White House, nurturing his friendly ties with the Republican leader, including accompanying him on trips to Qatar and Saudi Arabia.

Once it was evident Trump would not receive the Nobel Peace Prize, FIFA established its own award for peace, which Infantino handed to the President during the World Cup draw in Washington in December.

Infantinos personal geopolitical approach is driven by financial gains. Issues conflicting with human rights or global legal standards do not disrupt his plans, noted Raphael Le Magoariec, a French expert in Gulf region sports politics.

The narrative built around his association with Trump, aimed at boosting the presidents self image, now clashes sharply with ongoing events.

A source near footballs regulatory organisations, speaking anonymously, called Infantinos practical mindset utterly absurd.

Yet it seems logical, as he aims for a smooth World Cup and views Trump as essential to that goal.

- 'Commercial success' -

This years event, grown from 32 to 48 teams, is expected to generate the highest earnings ever. FIFA projects 11 billion dollars (9.5bn euros) in income for the 2023 to 2026 period, to be distributed among its affiliates.

Voters in the future prioritise funds above all. A financially thriving World Cup ensures they receive ample support, the source explained.

With one year left in his term, Infantino is making a calculated choice by siding with Trump.

Still, the spread of the Iran dispute to US partners like Qatar and Saudi Arabia, now key influencers in international sports, requires Infantino to navigate carefully.

Saudi Arabia is slated to host the 2034 World Cup, following Qatars event in 2022.

Trumps military actions overlook the strategic aims of regional Arab nations pursuing soft power. They confront a dire scenario that endangers their long term initiatives spanning twenty years, Le Magoariec observed.

Nevertheless, picturing shifts in alliances due to Middle East tensions is difficult, given Irans minimal role in global sports.

Should Iran withdraw, it would hold little consequence commercially, economically, or politically, stated Simon Chadwick, an expert in sports geopolitics at EM Lyon business school.

Conversely, removing a rival would allow Trump and his administration to promote their desired image and principles effectively.

For FIFA, maintaining ties with Trump justifies sidelining Iran, Le Magoariec concluded.