Los Angeles, USA — FIFA President Gianni Infantino has playfully warned Los Angeles residents to prepare for an “invasion” of football fans ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, describing the expected millions of visitors as “happy barbarians.”
Speaking at the Milken Institute Global Conference, Infantino told the audience: “You will be invaded. You will be invaded by a horde of barbarians. But it’s happy barbarians, don’t worry.”
His comments highlight the massive scale of the 2026 tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, which is set to be the largest World Cup ever with 48 teams. Los Angeles, as a key host city, is bracing for a significant influx of international supporters.
Infantino’s light-hearted remarks underscore both the excitement and logistical challenges that lie ahead for the city as it prepares to welcome fans from around the globe for the summer 2026 spectacle.
