FIFA President Gianni Infantino Backs Inter Over Barcelona in Champions League Final
FIFA President Gianni Infantino says he hopes Inter Milan defeats Barcelona to reach the UEFA Champions League final.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino attended the Miami Grand Prix, one of the most prominent events in the Formula 1 calendar held in the United States, on Sunday. On the sidelines of this globally broadcast sporting event, Infantino took the opportunity to showcase the FIFA Club World Cup trophy—a tournament set to take place in a new format from June 14 to July 13.
During pre-race programs, alongside official ceremonies and press conferences, Infantino spoke with various media outlets. One of the questions was about the upcoming UEFA Champions League final. Without hesitation and in his usual straightforward style, he once again expressed his personal affection for Inter Milan. Smiling, he said: “Everyone knows I’m an Inter fan,” reaffirming his support for one of Italy and Europe’s historic football clubs.
He also praised Lautaro Martinez, Inter’s Argentine striker, for his key role in the team’s recent successes: “Inter is the team of Argentinians. Martinez has been outstanding. I wish him success.”
Infantino highlighted Martinez’s influence on Inter’s squad and the growing affection of Argentine fans for the club, adding: “He has made Argentinians fall in love with Inter. Others have done the same before him.”
Lautaro, who recently won Serie A with Inter, has played a crucial role in the team’s recent performances. His presence has revived the historic connection between Inter and Argentine players—from Javier Zanetti to Diego Milito.
This is not a new topic. Since Infantino became FIFA President in February 2016, he has publicly spoken about his Italian roots and his love for Inter Milan on several occasions. Born in Switzerland but of Italian descent, he has always said he grew up watching Serie A and that his family were Inter supporters. In previous interviews, he has even mentioned players like Alessandro Altobelli and Evaristo Beccalossi as his childhood heroes.
Although his role as FIFA President requires neutrality on the international stage, Infantino has never hidden his affection for Inter. His presence at high-profile events like Formula 1 races, along with moves such as promoting the Club World Cup and expressing personal emotions, demonstrates how he skillfully connects different sports worlds and emotionally engages with fans.