By Islam El-Sakka
An 11-metre effigy of FIFA president Gianni Infantino has been unveiled as the centrepiece of this year's Bonfire Night celebrations in Edenbridge, Kent.
Effigy details
The giant figure depicts Infantino with cash spilling from his ears, holding a golden statue of US President Donald Trump's head referencing a "FIFA Peace Prize", a "red card hotline" token, and a mock "Presidents for Dummies" book inscribed with "how to make billions". A wheelie bin placed in front contains a Manchester City shirt and a traffic light.
Controversies reflected
The effigy reflects controversies surrounding Infantino's tenure since 2016, including a plan to seek private investment for World Cup commercial rights that drew accusations of selling off the game, and an incident where Trump reportedly asked Infantino to review a red card decision during the World Cup.
Long-standing tradition
The Edenbridge Bonfire Society has created satirical effigies of public figures since 1994. Past targets have included Trump, Liz Truss, Harvey Weinstein, Katie Hopkins, and London Mayor Sadiq Khan. Last year's effigy depicted then-prime minister Keir Starmer wearing a "farmer harmer" badge.
Artist and society co-chair Andrea Deans said she enjoyed moving away from traditional political figures and found Infantino a great subject for caricature.
