Saudi Arabia's successful 2034 bid will be confirmed by acclamation at an extraordinary Fifa congress, to be held online on 11 December, while the Guardian has learned that the draw for European qualifying for the 2026 World Cup two days later will also take place remotely.
Infantino is under pressure to explain several recent controversial decisions from Fifa, particularly giving Saudi Arabia World Cup hosting rights without a vote and its organisation of next year's Club World Cup, and has opted to keep the world's media away from Zurich.
The 54-year-old has not given a press conference since he was re-elected president at the 73rd Fifa congress in Rwanda in March 2023, causing surprise by refusing to speak after this year's congress in Bangkok.
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West Ham look to Conceicao as Lopetegui pressure grows
West Ham are considering Sergio Conceicao as a replacement for Julen Lopetegui, whose future as manager is under growing pressure after his team's 5-2 defeat at home against Arsenal last Saturday.
Van Nistelrooy's 'hurt' New Leicester manager stung by his enforced United exit
New Leicester manager stung by his enforced United exit
'So far so good' Coach perfect fit for Reds, says captain
Virgil van Dijk believes Liverpool found the \"perfect match\" for their tight-knit, experienced squad when appointing Arne Slot as Jürgen Klopp's successor.
Definitely maybe: Slot looks imperious at Anfield but could Guardiola be forced from Etihad?
Perhaps the most extraordinary aspect of Sunday afternoon at Anfield was how ordinary it all felt. Everybody came for something apocalyptic and what they got was a league game that felt like pretty much any other league game in which Liverpool beat a side who aren't as good as them.
Van Dijk still Liverpool's spirit animal as City's decay deepens
Imperious defender is central to Slot's success and makes a stark contrast to Haaland's struggles in City's attack
Yoro in line for overdue Manchester United debut
Ruben Amorim has revealed \"special talent\" Leny Yoro could make his Manchester United debut at Arsenal tomorrow evening.
Saudi Arabia seals more than 900 sponsor deals amid World Cup drive
Saudi Arabia has struck more than 900 sponsorship deals across the sporting landscape and made dozens of formalised agreements with football federations as it prepares for a controversial coronation to host the 2034 World Cup.
Wiegman ready to make Lionesses 'uncomfortable' in Euro 2025 push
Sarina Wiegman says she has wanted England's players to feel uncomfortable so they can learn new things before Euro 2025.
Amorim's FA Cup bow comes at Arsenal in 2005 final rerun
The FA Cup holders Manchester United enter the fray at next month's third-round stage with a visit to the record 14-time winners Arsenal, in a repeat of the 2005 final.
All Women's Championship matches to be streamed live
Every Women's Championship match will be streamed live on the league's YouTube channel from next season onwards, the Guardian can reveal.
