During the opening ceremony of the World Cup in Mexico City, FIFA President Gianni Infantino lifted the coveted World Cup trophy without gloves. This act has been widely criticized as disrespectful by many footballers and observers. Traditionally, only World Cup winners are permitted to touch the trophy with their bare hands, a custom intended to preserve its prestige. Infantino’s gesture flouted this established protocol, causing offense to players who have earned the right to handle the trophy through years of dedication. The incident has sparked controversy and drawn attention away from the tournament’s kickoff. FIFA has yet to issue a statement addressing the backlash. The breach of etiquette is considered a significant oversight by the organization’s president.