UK authorities: Gianni Infantino’s remark regarding British supporters not ‘constructive or precise’

The comment made by FIFA president Gianni Infantino regarding the conduct of British fans at the 2022 Qatar World Cup was described as “neither helpful nor accurate” by the UK’s football policing lead.

Infantino directed a remark at British supporters during his address at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, stating that the 2022 finals were notable because “no Brit was arrested.”

Chief Constable Mark Roberts, who oversees football policing for the National Police Chiefs’ Council, informed the Press Association: “While such comments may be made in jest, it is neither helpful nor accurate to express this kind of sentiment.

“To clarify, ‘British’ fans behaving appropriately at World Cups is the standard, not an exception.

“In Qatar, there were no arrests of English or Welsh fans; in Russia, three England fans faced arrest for very minor infractions. In Brazil, there were 15 arrests, seven of which involved ticket touts, and South Africa recorded seven arrests for minor issues.

FIFA’s Infantino accused of making ‘cheap joke’ at the expense of British fans

“Considering the large number of fans who travel and invest significant amounts to attend World Cups, there are numerous other countries that present greater challenges for hosts.”

Infantino discussed the Qatar World Cup while attempting to ease concerns regarding the upcoming finals in North America, particularly in the United States, where domestic tensions are elevated.

He noted that there had been “a lot of critics” of the Qatar finals but added: “Once the matches commenced and the excitement began, we experienced virtually no incidents.

“For the first time in history, no Brit was arrested during a World Cup. Can you imagine? This is truly something special.”

The Football Supporters’ Association stated on Thursday that Infantino should prioritize offering affordable tickets instead of making light-hearted jokes at the expense of fans.

FIFA has been approached for a response.