FIFA President Gianni Infantino has revealed why he was unable to attend the 2026 World Cup third-place playoff between England and France, explaining that severe weather conditions in New York prevented him from traveling to Miami for the match.
Infantino had been scheduled to fly to Miami to attend the game, but weather-related disruptions and flight cancellations forced him to remain in the New York area.
Infantino Says Weather Prevented Miami Trip
In a video recorded at the stadium hosting the World Cup final between Argentina and Spain in East Rutherford, near New York, Infantino said he had originally planned to attend the third-place playoff in Miami.
However, he explained that weather conditions prevented the trip, prompting him to visit the final venue instead to ensure preparations were complete ahead of the tournament’s showpiece match.
Flights Canceled Amid Severe Weather
Several flights to and from New York were canceled due to adverse weather conditions, disrupting travel during the final stages of the World Cup.
The weather also affected Spain’s preparations, forcing the national team to cancel its scheduled training session on Saturday.
England Secure Third Place
England defeated France 6-4 in the third-place playoff to finish their 2026 World Cup campaign with the bronze medal.
Attention now turns to the tournament final, where Argentina and Spain are set to meet in East Rutherford to decide the 2026 World Cup champion.
