A massive effigy of FIFA chief Gianni Infantino, clad in an Argentina jersey, was set ablaze in Lewes last Thursday, sharing the spotlight with British premier Andy Burnham. Could this fiery spectacle be the town’s way of venting lingering World Cup disappointment?
Still smarting from England’s extra‑time loss to Argentina in the World Cup semi‑final, locals crafted the towering Infantino figure for the Lewes Bonfire, the town’s traditional night of bonfires.
The ceremony is a long‑standing tradition in Lewes, a small town south of London. Every November 5th residents march in costume, torch in hand, behind colossal satirical effigies that are burned at the night’s climax.
Infantino stands beside the UK premier at the bonfire.
The Lewes Bonfire draws tens of thousands annually, with locals delighting in torching caricatures of British politicians and foreign leaders. This year, Andy Burnham stood beside the towering Infantino figure.
Infantino, whose recent push to sell a chunk of World Cup rights sparked controversy, appears increasingly out of step with global fans. In my view, his commercial gambits threaten the sport’s integrity.
Many in England view him as a biased leader who allegedly helped Argentina clinch the 2022 title and hopes to repeat the feat in 2026, fueling heated debate after the semi‑final.