Vancouver Rejects FIFA Request for ‘Pope-Level’ Security for Gianni Infantino

Authorities in Vancouver have declined a request by FIFA to provide its president Gianni Infantino with an elite level of security typically reserved for world leaders and religious figures.

The request came ahead of FIFA’s annual congress taking place in the Canadian city this week. According to reports, FIFA sought a level-four motorcade escort for Infantino — a security arrangement that would allow his convoy to bypass traffic signals and require road closures across key routes.

Such a high-level escort is rarely granted and is generally associated with figures like the Pope or the President of the United States. Notably, it exceeds the standard security protocol typically provided to the Prime Minister of Canada.

In response, the City of Vancouver issued a statement emphasizing that any transportation and security measures for visiting dignitaries would remain “appropriate, measured, and consistent” with how the city handles major international events. The decision reflects a balance between safety considerations and practical urban management.

The development highlights ongoing scrutiny around FIFA leadership and its operational demands. Infantino, who has maintained close ties with global political figures including Donald Trump, has been increasingly visible on the international stage, particularly in the lead-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

This is not the first time such a request has been turned down. During the 2023 Women’s World Cup in New Zealand, local authorities similarly declined a request for a motorcade escort after assessing it against standard procedures.

Meanwhile, the FIFA congress itself is set to begin amid broader controversies. Lise Klaveness, head of the Norwegian Football Federation, has criticized FIFA’s decision to award a “peace prize” to Trump, calling for the initiative to be scrapped and arguing it falls outside the organization’s mandate.

As global attention turns to Vancouver for the congress, the security decision underscores the limits cities are willing to place on exceptional requests, even from powerful international organizations.

Courtesy: independent