In a significant development ahead of the 76th FIFA Congress set to take place in Vancouver this week, local authorities have declined a request for a motorcade escort for FIFA President Gianni Infantino. This decision underscores the city’s commitment to maintaining standard protocols for high-profile events, even amidst the excitement surrounding the upcoming World Cup.
Vancouver’s Decision on FIFA’s Request
The Vancouver Police Department (VPD) firmly stated that it would not provide an expedited escort for Infantino during his visit for the FIFA Congress. Constable Darren Wong, a spokesperson for the VPD, clarified that motorcade escorts are reserved exclusively for visiting heads of state, and FIFA executives do not meet this criterion. “At this point, a FIFA executive does not meet that standard,” Wong explained in a telephone interview.
This year’s Congress will convene representatives from across the globe, all gathered in preparation for the World Cup, which will take place in 16 cities, including Vancouver and Toronto, between June 11 and July 19.
Local Officials Support the VPD’s Stance
Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim expressed his support for the police department’s decision, emphasising the need for any transportation arrangements to be “appropriate, measured, and consistent” with the city’s established practices for safely hosting major international events.
FIFA acknowledged the request for an escort but issued a statement to The Globe and Mail, indicating that Infantino had no prior knowledge of the request. The statement stressed that the responsibility for such logistical arrangements lies with the Canadian World Cup organisers, who are expected to coordinate with local authorities.
In Toronto, where the World Cup matches kick off on June 12, police spokesperson Stephanie Sayer also confirmed that no VIP escorts would be provided. However, she noted that police