Police in Vancouver have rejected a request from FIFA to provide president Gianni Infantino with a level-four motorcade escort, typically reserved for heads of state and figures such as the Pope. The request was made ahead of FIFA's annual congress, which is taking place in the Canadian city this week.
According to reports, FIFA asked for a full motorcade escort that would allow Infantino's convoy to pass through downtown traffic lights with roads blocked off. This level of security is one step below that afforded to the Pope, on par with the US president, and higher than that given to Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.
A Vancouver Police Department media relations officer confirmed the rejection, stating: "Formal motorcades where traffic is stopped are reserved for heads of state. As the FIFA Executive do not meet Internationally Protected Person (IPP) standards that would warrant such an escort... the request was declined." The City of Vancouver added that any transportation arrangements would be "appropriate, measured, and consistent with how Vancouver safely hosts major international events."
FIFA responded by saying Infantino was not aware of or involved in the request. A spokesperson said: "The FIFA president was not aware of, or involved in, any requests with authorities in relation to his transportation and security matters... In line with previous arrangements for such events, FWC26 Canada, as local organisers, liaised with authorities requesting support in relation to all delegates, guests, and stakeholders."
This is not the first time such a request has been declined. During the 2023 Women's World Cup in New Zealand, a similar request for a motorcade for Infantino was also rejected by local police. The FIFA congress begins on Thursday amid controversy over the awarding of a FIFA 'peace prize' to US President Donald Trump, which has been criticised by the head of the Norwegian FA, Lise Klaveness.
