FIFA's Gianni Infantino meets ICC chief Jay Shah: Details here
What's the story
In a historic meeting, FIFA President Gianni Infantino met International Cricket Council (ICC) Chairman Jay Shah in Milan. The encounter marks a major crossover between two of the world's most popular sports. Infantino took to Instagram to share his thoughts on the meeting and express his hopes for future collaboration. He praised Shah's efforts in promoting cricket and wished him luck as the sport returns to the Olympic program at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Future partnership
Infantino eyes collaboration
Infantino also expressed his desire to work together with Shah, saying, "I also look forward to working together and collaborating as we unite the world through sports." The FIFA President's statement hints at a potential partnership between two of the world's biggest sporting organizations. It also emphasizes their shared goal of using sports to bring people together globally.
Olympic comeback
Cricket's return to the Olympics
Cricket's return to the Olympics is a major milestone in its global expansion. The sport has appeared in the Olympic Games only once before, in 1900. It will return after a 128-year hiatus, in the T20 format. Back then, Great Britain had won the gold medal in a one-off match against France. The qualification process for the LA28 Olympic Games is yet to be confirmed. It will likely be discussed during the ICC's Annual Conference in Singapore.
Sport's rise
Growing global footprint
Cricket's return to the Olympics is a testament to its growing popularity. Women's cricket appeared in the 2022 Commonwealth Games (CWG), while cricket has been part of the Asian Games. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has confirmed that T20 competitions for men and women at LA28 will be held from July 12 to July 29, 2028.