Sky Sports reported on the salary details of FIFA president Gianni Infantino, highlighting a notable increase following his reelection in 2023. The information indicates that Infantino’s remuneration rose from 1.99 million euros to 2.69 million euros, a rise of about one third. In addition to the salary, he received a bonus of 1.93 million euros tied to the Women’s World Cup, bringing his total earnings to 4.21 million euros for the period discussed.
Infantino has led FIFA since February 26, 2016. The term of his current mandate extends through 2027. Before joining FIFA, he held the role of Secretary General at the Center for International Sports Studies, commonly known as CIES, where his career path included work that connected governance, sports science, and international development. His tenure at FIFA has involved navigating a complex landscape of global football governance, development programs, and strategic partnerships aimed at expanding the sport’s footprint worldwide.
In 2022, FIFA and the Union of European Football Associations, commonly known as UEFA, suspended participation by Russia from all competitions administered by these bodies. This measure affected national teams and clubs alike, reflecting the broader political and sporting context in which international football operates. The suspension had immediate implications for Russia’s competitive schedule and its pathway to major tournaments at both the national and club levels.
As a consequence of the suspension, the Russian national team did not reach the 2022 World Cup playoffs, and it also faced absence from the upcoming European Championship. The impact of these decisions extended beyond the pitch, influencing planning for national programs, sponsorship strategies, and the broader competitive calendar in European and international football for the period ahead.
Looking ahead, March announcements outlined two forthcoming friendly matches for the Russian national team. Valery Karpin’s squad was slated to face Serbia on March 21 and Paraguay on March 25, with both fixtures scheduled to be held in Moscow. These matches were expected to serve as opportunities for players to maintain form, repertoire, and readiness in a period of transition for the squad’s competitive trajectory. Such friendlies often provide crucial data for coaches and scouting staff, informing future selections and tactical considerations as teams adapt to evolving circumstances in international football.
Earlier reporting noted that Russia stands among the top three most expensive players in the post-Soviet era within Serie A, underscoring the financial reality of personnel within continental club competition. This observation reflects broader themes around transfer markets, valuation, and the financial dynamics that influence how clubs assemble and retain talent in major European leagues. The intersection of player valuation, governance decisions, and institutional leadership remains a focal point for analysts assessing the direction of football on the world stage.