Overview
- Fonseca’s remarks were published on February 23 in L’Équipe, bringing fresh scrutiny to FIFA’s political decisions ahead of 2026.
- He rejects Gianni Infantino’s suggestion that Russia could rejoin international competitions, calling the idea unacceptable while Ukraine cannot host matches.
- He compares Infantino to President Trump, accusing both of prioritizing economic interests over people.
- He urges that the 2026 tournament be relocated away from the United States, even though it is scheduled to be co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
- He cites personal ties to Ukraine, noting his marriage to a Ukrainian and recounting his evacuation from Kyiv to Moldova, and he previously coached Shakhtar Donetsk.