“Gianni Infantino to Hold Virtual Draw for 2026 World Cup, Avoiding Controversy Over Saudi Arabia’s 2034 Bid” 2024-11-13

is set to sidestep scrutiny regarding the controversial decision to award the 2034 World Cup to Saudi Arabia, as FIFA has announced that the qualifying draw for the 2026 tournament will be conducted virtually. The confirmation of Saudi Arabia's successful bid for the 2034 World Cup will take place by acclamation during an extraordinary FIFA congress scheduled for December 11, which will also be held online. Following this, the draw for the European qualifying matches for the 2026 World Cup is also planned to occur remotely, just two days later. This decision allows Infantino to avoid the spotlight amid ongoing debates surrounding the implications of the Saudi bid.

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Question 1: Why is Gianni Infantino avoiding the spotlight during the 2026 World Cup draw?

Gianni Infantino is avoiding scrutiny related to the controversial decision to award the 2034 World Cup to Saudi Arabia by holding the qualifying draw for the 2026 tournament as a virtual event.

Question 2: When will the extraordinary Fifa congress confirming Saudi Arabia's 2034 World Cup bid take place?

The extraordinary Fifa congress to confirm Saudi Arabia's 2034 World Cup bid will be held online on 11 December.

Question 3: How will the draw for European qualifying for the 2026 World Cup be conducted?

The draw for European qualifying for the 2026 World Cup will also take place remotely, two days after the extraordinary Fifa congress.

Question 4: What was Gianni Infantino's position in Fifa as of last year?

Gianni Infantino was re-elected as Fifa president last year.