Seven Players Lost in Tragic Fire; FIFA President Invites Grieving Club Head to World Cup

Pulse Sports Team 13:59 - 14 June 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino invited the president of an amateur club, which lost seven of its players in a tragic New Year's fire in Crans-Montana, to Switzerland's opening match at the World Cup. Stephane Bise heads the Swiss local league club, FC Lutry.

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Infantino, a Swiss national, posted a joint photo with Bise on social media from Switzerland's match against Qatar (1-1), played last Saturday near San Francisco.

"It's important to take a moment to remember those who lost their lives in this tragedy, including many associated with FC Lutry," Infantino stated. "Football teaches us humanity, and our thoughts remain with all those affected by this disaster."

The fire at the Crans-Montana mountain resort claimed 41 lives and injured 115 others.

Among the victims were several individuals connected to FC Lutry, as reported by DPA.