Overview
- Vancouver police, which confirmed the denial Tuesday, refused a request to give FIFA’s president a level-four motorcade that can run red lights and block roads.
- Police said full motorcades require closing intersections and are reserved for visiting heads of state, adding that a FIFA executive does not meet that standard.
- FIFA said Gianni Infantino was not aware of any transport requests, noting local organizers liaise with authorities, and the mayor’s office pledged measured arrangements.
- Officials have not disclosed final security costs for Vancouver’s seven World Cup matches, even as planners forecast more officers than ever in the city and added temporary surveillance around BC Place.
- A similar request for Infantino was declined by New Zealand police in 2023, and Toronto police now say they do not plan VIP escorts, signaling tighter limits on head‑of‑state perks for sports officials.