FIFA chief arriving next week

International Football Federation (FIFA) president Gianni Infantino will arrive in the Philippines for the 2026 ASEAN Football Federation Congress on 15 November in Makati and the 2026 ASEAN Summit.

The Philippine Football Federation (PFF) said Infantino will also be visiting the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex, which is renovating its facilities under the guidance of the Philippine Sports Commission.

“In his Philippine visit, president Infantino will visit the Rizal Memorial Stadium in Manila, with the purpose of checking the stadium and reaffirming FIFA’s commitment to rebuild Philippine football’s main hub, transforming it into a modern and world-class venue that meets elite international competition standards,” the PFF said.

Infantino, who is seeking a fourth term as FIFA president in next year’s elections, visited the Philippines for the first time last year as the country hosted the first Futsal Women’s World Cup at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City.

Infantino praised the Philippines for its successful hosting in the inaugural Futsal Women’s World Cup.

“I think it’s about time that a big country like the Philippines, who is known all over the world for being such a welcoming country, is hosting a big FIFA event,” Infantino said.

“To host the first one of what will be a competition that will grow immensely all over the world is something which is even more special. So, I’m really proud and really happy of what the Philippines have done here.”