Authorities in Vancouver have turned down a request from FIFA to provide its president, Gianni Infantino, with a high-level motorcade escort typically reserved for global leaders such as the Pope or the U.S. president.
The request was made ahead of FIFA’s annual congress in the Canadian city. Officials said security arrangements would remain «appropriate and measured,» in line with previous international events, rather than granting exceptional privileges.
The proposed level-four escort would have allowed Infantino’s convoy to bypass traffic controls and close roads, raising concerns about necessity and public perception. The decision comes as Vancouver faces growing scrutiny over rising security costs linked to hosting World Cup-related events.
This marks the second time such a request has been denied, following a similar refusal by authorities in New Zealand during the 2023 Women’s World Cup.
The incident highlights ongoing tensions between FIFA and host cities over security expectations, as preparations continue for the expanded 2026 World Cup across North America.
