FIFA reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peace following Thursday’s Council meeting at FIFA headquarters in Zurich, Switzerland. The global governing body said it aims to build bridges and is urging all countries set to compete in the 2026 World Cup to do so “in a spirit of fair play and mutual respect.”

Infantino: Soccer can unite in turbulent times

FIFA president Gianni Infantino called for peace and emphasized soccer’s unique ability to bring people together during a period of ongoing geopolitical tension.

“FIFA cannot resolve geopolitical conflicts,” Infantino said, “but we are committed to using the power of soccer and the World Cup to build bridges and promote peace. Our thoughts are with those suffering as a result of ongoing wars.”

He also addressed uncertainty surrounding Iran’s participation in the tournament, making clear FIFA’s intention to move forward as planned.

“FIFA expects all teams competing in the World Cup to do so in a spirit of fair play and mutual respect,” he said. “We have a schedule. Soon we will confirm the 48 teams competing, and we want the FIFA World Cup to take place as planned.”

Israel case reviewed, no immediate action taken

One of the key issues discussed by the Council involved a long-standing request from the Palestinian Football Association to investigate Israeli teams allegedly based in Palestinian territory competing in Israeli leagues.

The matter has been under review for more than a decade. In October 2024, FIFA tasked its Disciplinary Committee with investigating potential discrimination, while also assigning its Governance, Audit and Compliance Committee to examine the broader issue and advise the Council.

Following those investigations, the Council concluded that no immediate action should be taken.

According to FIFA, “the final legal status of the West Bank remains an unresolved and highly complex matter under public international law,” making it inappropriate for the organization to intervene under its current statutes.

FIFA reiterated that it will continue to promote dialogue and offer mediation between the Palestinian and Israeli football associations, while maintaining structured oversight of developments.

Israel federation fined, ordered to implement anti-discrimination measures

Despite taking no action on the broader territorial issue, FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee sanctioned the Israel Football Association for violations of its code, including offensive conduct and discrimination.

The federation was fined €165,000, over $190,000, and must implement a series of corrective measures.

As part of the ruling, Israel’s men’s national team will be required to display a prominent banner reading “Football Unites the World – No to Discrimination” during its next three home FIFA matches.

The federation must submit the banner’s design, size, and placement for FIFA approval at least 15 days before each match.

In addition, one-third of the fine must be reinvested within 60 days into a comprehensive anti-discrimination plan. That plan will include reforms, updated protocols, monitoring systems, and educational campaigns in stadiums and across official channels for a full season.

The remaining balance must be paid within 30 days of the decision. FIFA also issued a formal warning, noting that the decision can be appealed.

The Disciplinary Committee stressed that while its mandate is limited to enforcing FIFA regulations, it “cannot remain indifferent to the human context in which soccer is played.”

FIFA approves record $13.9 billion revenue budget

The Council also unanimously approved FIFA’s annual report, which includes a record revenue budget of more than €12 billion, approximately $13.9 billion, for the 2027 to 2030 cycle.

FIFA said those funds will be reinvested into the game globally, with a major increase in development spending.

Member associations will benefit from an eightfold increase in investment compared to pre-2016 programs.

“It’s not just about numbers, but tangible results,” Infantino said, pointing to expanded opportunities for men’s, women’s, and youth competitions, along with improved infrastructure and greater access to technology worldwide.

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