According to information released regarding the upcoming transition of power, FIFA President Gianni Infantino is scheduled to attend the presidential inauguration of Colombia’s president-elect, Abelardo De La Espriella. The official ceremony will mark the start of the 2026–2030 presidential period and is set to take place on Friday, August 7, 2026. Organizers have scheduled the event to occur at the Arena USC of the Universidad Santiago de Cali, making it the first presidential inauguration in Colombian history to take place outside of Bogotá following congressional approval for the change of venue.
Did You Know? The upcoming presidential inauguration on August 7, 2026, marks a historic milestone as the very first time a Colombian president takes office outside of Bogotá, following formal approval from Congress to relocate the official ceremony.
Infantino’s arrival forms part of a broader delegation of high-level international representatives expected to accompany the beginning of the new administration. According to Cali Mayor Alejandro Eder, the city will welcome ten international delegations, including heads of state, diplomats, and leaders of multilateral organizations. Alongside the head of soccer’s global governing body, confirmed guests include King Felipe VI, as well as Presidents Javier Milei, Daniel Noboa, and José Antonio Kast, among other international leaders.
The participation of these global figures brings a distinct deportivo and diplomatic dimension to the event, uniting political leaders and international authorities in a single venue. Municipal authorities note that the gathering will concentrate global attention on Cali for a single day, cementing the city’s growing international relevance as it hosts figures from both worldwide politics and sports.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why will Gianni Infantino attend the inauguration of Abelardo De La Espriella?
Gianni Infantino was confirmed as an international guest to attend the presidential inauguration as part of the official delegations accompanying the start of the new Colombian government.
When is the presidential inauguration scheduled to take place?
The ceremony will occur on Friday, August 7, 2026, marking the official beginning of the 2026–2030 presidential term.
Where will the ceremony be held?
The event will take place at the Arena USC of the Universidad Santiago de Cali, marking the first time a Colombian presidential investiture is held outside of Bogotá.
How will hosting international figures of this magnitude impact Cali’s profile on the global stage?