Infantino Flew 31,144 Miles by Private Jet at World Cup, Emitting 516 Tonnes of CO2e
Updated
Updated · bbc.co.uk · Jun 28
Infantino Flew 31,144 Miles by Private Jet at World Cup, Emitting 516 Tonnes of CO2e
1 articles · Updated · bbc.co.uk · Jun 28
Summary
BBC tracking found a jet linked to Gianni Infantino made 27 tournament flights in just over two weeks, matching his appearances at 24 World Cup matches across the US, Canada and Mexico.
The aircraft logged at least 31,144 miles and more than 66 hours in the air by June 27, with some days involving three flights and cross-country hops of more than 2,700 miles.
Using a Gulfstream G650ER fuel-burn estimate, the travel produced about 516 tonnes of CO2e—roughly the annual emissions of 78 average people worldwide.
FIFA said its president sometimes uses commercial airlines and sometimes private charter when that is more efficient and cost-effective, but it did not answer questions on passenger numbers, commercial alternatives or offsets.
The findings cut against FIFA's pledges to halve emissions by 2030 and reach net zero by 2040, as critics already warn the expanded 2026 tournament could become the most polluting World Cup yet.
With a record carbon footprint and an oil giant sponsor, are FIFA’s climate pledges just a game of greenwashing?
Is FIFA's leader flying high above his own rules on sustainability and accountability?
2026 FIFA World Cup Set to Break Emissions Records: Private Jet Controversy and the Sustainability Paradox
Overview
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, expanded across Canada, Mexico, and the United States, has sparked major public debate over its environmental impact, especially due to the extensive use of private jets by high-profile figures. Private air travel is under scrutiny because just one hour in a private plane can emit as much carbon as an average person does in a year, highlighting the considerable environmental cost. As the tournament's emissions reach new highs, these practices draw increasing criticism, raising concerns about the true commitment of organizers to sustainability and the broader consequences of hosting such large-scale international events.