FIFA president Gianni Infantino granted Lebanese citizenship
Note: AI technology was used to generate this article’s audio.
- FIFA president Gianni Infantino granted Lebanese citizenship, strengthening ties with the country and supporting football development.
Gianni Infantino, president of the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), officially received Lebanese citizenship on Monday after completing the legal procedures during his current visit to Lebanon.
The move strengthens Infantino’s family ties to the country, as his wife, Lina Al-Ashqar, is of Lebanese origin, paving the way for him and his family to obtain citizenship by official decree.
Meeting with President Michel Aoun and Plans for a New Stadium
Infantino was welcomed by Lebanese President Michel Aoun at the presidential palace, accompanied by his wife Lina Al-Ashqar and Lebanese Football Association president Hashim Haidar.
During the meeting, Infantino expressed his deep gratitude to President Aoun for the gesture. The Lebanese presidency revealed discussions on establishing a modern, FIFA-funded football stadium designed to international standards. The project aims to enhance the performance of the national team and support local clubs in continental competitions.
Warm Reception at Interior and Sports Ministries
Continuing his official engagements, Infantino met with Interior Minister Ahmad Al-Hajar, who presented him with a Lebanese national team jersey bearing the number 9 and his name in Arabic as a commemorative gift.
He also visited Youth and Sports Minister Nora Bayrakdar, who congratulated him on his “new affiliation” with Lebanon, highlighting his role in supporting Lebanese sports and developing athletic infrastructure as a key tool for empowering youth.
Boosting Lebanon’s Sports Profile Internationally
Infantino’s acquisition of Lebanese citizenship, in addition to his Swiss and Italian nationalities, marks a significant milestone for Lebanese football. Observers say this connection could facilitate sports investments and strategic partnerships with FIFA.
The planned FIFA-standard stadium reflects FIFA’s commitment to positioning Lebanon as a modern sports hub in the Middle East, offering a morale boost for Lebanese fans eager to see their national team compete at the highest levels in Asia.
