FIFA chief suggests clubs could play in June to allow winter World Cups

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has hinted that future World Cup tournaments could be played more regularly in winter as football’s governing body looks to tweak the global calendar.

According to The Times, Infantino has suggested that clubs should be allowed to play in June to pave the way for more World Cups to be played in winter.

The 2034 World Cup is set to be hosted by Saudi Arabia but the country’s summer temperatures could make it difficult for players to compete at a high level.

The Middle Eastern nation is known for its scorching summer temperatures, which can hit 39 degree celsius daily, so the usual June and July window may not be feasible.

FIFA could repeat what they did with the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, which was rescheduled for November and December due to temperature issues.

However, it also forced most European club campaigns to start earlier and finish later to accommodate it.

If Infantino has his way, another winter edition of the World Cup could be on the cards.

Speaking at the European Football Clubs annual assembly in Rome, Infantino confirmed that discussions are ongoing about the best way to adjust the international football calendar.

The 55-year-old also suggested that European nations struggle during the hottest months of the year, and raised the idea of more club football being played in June in the future.

“We are already into the nitty-gritty, we are discussing all the time,” Infantino said.

“It’s not just about one World Cup — it’s a general reflection — even to play in some European countries in July is very, very hot, so maybe we have to think.

“Actually, the best month to play football, which is June, is not used very much in Europe. 

“Maybe there are ways we can optimise the calendar, but we are discussing it and we will see when we come to some conclusions. We just have to have an open mind.”

FIFA is also facing similar temperature issues with next year’s World Cup but they’ve taken concrete steps, including using covered stadiums, to ensure things run smoothly