FIFA President Gianni Infantino's Strategic Diplomacy During U.S. Visit

In a surprising diplomatic move, FIFA President Gianni Infantino will visit Saudi Arabia and Qatar during President Donald Trump's state visit next week, even as the international soccer body convenes for its annual Congress in Paraguay.

Infantino's travel schedule is unprecedented, as it partially overlaps with the event often regarded as the world sport parliament's gathering of 211 member federations. FIFA cited significant world leader meetings in which the upcoming World Cups would be addressed, justifying the president's absence from Congress sessions.

His close association with Trump has grown since their December meetings and is mirrored by his regular encounters with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. These relationships are perceived to support FIFA's global expansion ambitions, despite concerns about Infantino's political emphasis over soccer governance.

(With inputs from agencies.)