India, July 18 -- FIFA president Gianni Infantino has described the 2026 World Cup as not only the greatest edition of the tournament but also the biggest "human, social and cultural event" ever witnessed by mankind.

Infantino made the sweeping assessment while addressing a FIFA reception hosted by US President Donald Trump at Trump Tower in New York on Friday, two days before the World Cup final between Argentina and Spain.

"This is not just the greatest World Cup of all time. It is the greatest human, social and cultural event that mankind has ever witnessed and seen. And we are all part of it," Infantino said. "And for this, I thank you very much, Mr President. Thanks for having us here."

The gathering included FIFA Council members,...