World Cup 2026: Infantino criticised over private jet use; Curaçao secure historic point – live
World Cup 2026: Infantino criticised over private jet use; Curaçao secure historic point – live
World Cup 2026 - The 2026 World Cup has kicked off with a mix of excitement and controversy, as global attention shifts to both on-field performances and off-field decisions. While fans and analysts have been captivated by the first 10 days of broadcast coverage, featuring highlights from Gary Lineker on ITV and Alexi Lalas engaging in thoughtful discussions with Thierry Henry on Fox, the tournament has also drawn scrutiny for its environmental footprint. One of the most contentious issues involves FIFA President Gianni Infantino, whose frequent use of a private jet has sparked debate among critics and environmental advocates.
Group H: Spain vs Saudi Arabia
Spain, still reeling from their 1-1 draw against Cape Verde in the opening match, returns to action in Atlanta today. The match against Saudi Arabia marks a pivotal moment in the group stage, with the team eager to build on their resilience. Young star Lamine Yamal, who came on as a substitute in the first game, is a key player to watch. His inclusion in the starting XI hinges on his recovery from a minor injury, but Luis de la Fuente, Spain’s coach, has emphasized the importance of nurturing the 18-year-old’s growth without overexposing him to comparisons with football legends.
"The worst mistake we could make would be to compare him to anyone," de la Fuente said, reflecting on Yamal’s potential. "He is in the midst of a process. His footballing maturity is exceptional, and he carries it with natural grace. We must let him evolve on his own terms, much like Salvador Dalí or Michelangelo, who each left a unique mark on their respective fields."
This metaphorical framing underscores the coach’s desire to keep Yamal’s focus on his development rather than the expectations tied to his age. With the expanded 48-team format, the tournament has already set the stage for high-stakes matches, and Spain’s clash with Saudi Arabia is a testament to the unpredictability of Group H.
Environmental Concerns Surround Infantino's Travel
Infantino’s relentless schedule has raised eyebrows, particularly among environmental groups. His habit of flying between cities like Mexico City, Guadalajara, Los Angeles, and San Francisco has been a point of contention, with critics arguing that the scale of his travel contributes to the tournament’s carbon emissions. FIFA, however, defends its approach, stating that executives prioritize efficiency and cost-effectiveness when choosing between commercial and private flights, and the organisation covers all travel expenses.
The issue has been amplified by the tournament’s increased size, now featuring 104 matches across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. This expansion means more travel for officials and teams, but Infantino’s private jet use remains a focal point. In September 2024, Josimar revealed that the president had already accumulated 600,000km (372,822 miles) in three years of flying, a figure that has now grown due to the 2026 format. Greenly, a French company specialising in carbon footprint assessments, highlighted the environmental impact, noting that just one hour in a private jet emits as much CO2 as an average person produces in a year.
Estimates suggest that if Infantino continues his current pace, his travel alone could contribute 300 to 500 tonnes of CO2 by the end of the tournament. That’s equivalent to the annual emissions of between 35 and 55 French individuals. While FIFA maintains that its choices are driven by operational needs, the criticism underscores a growing awareness of the sport’s environmental responsibilities.
Curaçao’s Historic Draw
Meanwhile, in Kansas City, Curaçao made headlines with a 0-0 draw against Ecuador, securing its first-ever point in World Cup history. This achievement is particularly notable given the nation’s status as the smallest team in terms of population and size. Curaçao’s tournament debut last Sunday ended in a 7-1 loss to Germany, but their resilience shone through in this match. The island nation, a constituent country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands, saw King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima in attendance, their royal presence adding a symbolic layer to the historic result.
The monarchs, who wore bright blue scarves during the match, swapped them for orange ones in a quick turnaround, a nod to the team’s national identity. This small but significant detail highlights the cultural pride tied to Curaçao’s performance. For a nation with limited resources, the draw represents a step forward in the tournament’s narrative, proving that even the smallest teams can make a mark.
Legacy of the Expanded Tournament
The 2026 World Cup’s expanded format has not only changed the number of matches but also the dynamics of global football. With teams from across the Americas, the event’s footprint extends beyond traditional host nations, creating a new landscape for international competition. This growth, however, has come at a cost. The 2022 World Cup in Qatar saw over 1,846 private jets used, surpassing the combined attendance of events like the Super Bowl, Cannes Film Festival, World Economic Forum in Davos, and Cop28. The 2026 tournament is expected to see a similar or even greater number of private aircraft, further complicating its environmental impact.
As the tournament progresses, the interplay between on-field drama and off-field challenges will continue to shape its legacy. While Spain, Curaçao, and Infantino’s travel choices dominate the headlines, the broader implications of the expanded format—both for football’s global reach and its carbon footprint—will be scrutinised in the coming weeks. The World Cup, as always, remains a platform where sport and society intersect, and 2026 is no exception.