Politics
Putin, Zelenskyy and Infantino remained in office
The leaders of Russia, Ukraine and FIFA all stayed in power through 2026.
On Friday, 1 January 2027, the leadership of Russia, Ukraine and FIFA was confirmed unchanged. Vladimir Putin was still serving as president of Russia. Volodymyr Zelenskyy remained president of Ukraine. Gianni Infantino continued as FIFA president.
Putin's tenure extended through the end of 2026, marking another year in office. No indication of a transition emerged during the year. The Russian presidency therefore remained under his control.
Zelenskyy likewise completed 2026 as Ukraine's head of state. The Ukrainian presidency showed no change during the period. His incumbency persisted into the new year.
Infantino's term as FIFA president also ran through December 2026. The football governing body reported no leadership shift. The organization therefore entered 2027 with him at its helm.
Analysis
Continuity in Russia and Ukraine's top offices suggests that the strategic directions set by both leaders will likely persist, affecting diplomatic engagements and the ongoing conflict dynamics in the region. Without a leadership change, existing policies and negotiation stances are expected to remain the baseline for international actors.
Zelenskyy's ongoing presidency provides Ukraine with a stable political figurehead, which may influence the country's internal cohesion and its ability to coordinate military and humanitarian efforts. The lack of a leadership transition could also shape the nature of foreign aid and diplomatic support, as partner nations adjust to a familiar interlocutor.
Infantino's continued role at FIFA means that the organization's governance and reform agenda will proceed under the same leadership, influencing upcoming tournaments and policy decisions. Stakeholders in global football will have to operate within the existing administrative framework, while any potential changes to the sport's governance will depend on his future actions.
Background consulted for the analysis
What this was built from
Each claim above traces to a market below, at the price it was trading when this edition went to press.