Infantino calls for ‘culture of respect’ as FIFA president attends Arabian Gulf Cup in Saudi Arabia

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has called for greater dialogue and mutual respect across world football as he attended the opening matches of the 27th Arabian Gulf Cup in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Infantino used his visit to address ongoing discussions around proposed FIFA reforms, insisting that constructive dialogue between the organisation’s 211 member associations is essential to the future development of the game.

Arabian Gulf Cup gets underway in Jeddah

The Arabian Gulf Cup officially kicked off in Jeddah on Wednesday, coinciding with celebrations marking Saudi National Day.

Hosts Saudi Arabia began their campaign with a 1-0 victory over Kuwait at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium.

Earlier in the day, Iraq and Oman played out a 1-1 draw at Prince Abdullah Al-Faisal Sports City Stadium as the eight-team tournament got underway.

The competition features Bahrain, Iraq, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Yemen.

Infantino calls for dialogue over FIFA reforms

While attending the opening fixtures, Infantino outlined his position on the ongoing discussions surrounding proposed changes to FIFA’s governance structure.

The FIFA president said the reforms should be approached through open discussion and collaboration rather than headlines or division.

“There must be a culture of dialogue, of listening to each other and respecting one another,” Infantino wrote on Instagram.

“This is not about generating positive headlines, it is about doing what is right for the game. I have never been more determined and committed in doing that.

“FIFA is always engaged. I am always engaged and want to hear how we can continue to grow football for the benefit of everybody, everywhere.”

His comments come as FIFA continues discussions with its member associations over the proposed reforms.

Jeddah hosts Arabian Gulf Cup for first time

The 27th edition of the Arabian Gulf Cup marks the first time Jeddah has hosted the regional tournament.

Infantino praised the organisers and Saudi football authorities for staging the competition, while also acknowledging the role of the Gulf Football Federation.

“I was delighted to witness one of the opening matches of the 27th Arabian Gulf Cup – especially as it is the first time that this great tournament has been staged in Jeddah,” Infantino said.

The FIFA president also thanked Gulf Football Federation president Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed Al-Thani, the Saudi Arabian Football Federation and its president Bader bin Sulaiman Al-Reztiza, alongside other Saudi officials involved in the tournament.

Infantino praises eight competing nations

Infantino also sent his best wishes to the eight teams competing for the Arabian Gulf Cup, highlighting the importance of the tournament to supporters across the region.

“I also extend my best wishes to the eight competing teams who are sure to give their all for their great fans located across the region and beyond,” he added.

With the tournament now underway, Infantino’s visit has combined regional football celebrations with wider discussions about the direction of FIFA and the future governance of the global game