Gianni Infantino and Mark Carney sign Russian flag at Canada 6-0 Qatar | OneFootball

FIFA president Gianni Infantino and Canadian prime minister Mark Carney signed a Russian flag after a supporter’s ruse during Canada’s 6-0 win over Qatar on Thursday. Both had been in the stands and were handing out autographs.

'We went up to him for a photo, and he was happy to hold the flag. He spoke in Russian to say, "OK, thank you",' the supporter told Championat.

The pair were approached while they watched the hosts’ display, but the fan initially hid the flag’s full design to obscure the country. Footage appears to show the banner only partly visible, and he said they signed without issue.

The man, a member of the Nulevka supporters’ group, said the entire Russia squad have also signed his flag. He added that the group has followed the national team to every game since 2014.

Russia have been excluded from FIFA and UEFA competitions since 2022 following the invasion of Ukraine. Earlier this year, Infantino said he was in favour of Russia and its clubs being readmitted to international tournaments.

Source: L'Équipe