 "Switzerland will be hoping Roger Federer and Gianni Infantino are able to convince US President Donald Trump against placing a whopping 39 per cent import duty on their goods. Reuters")
US President Donald Trump has once again sent shockwaves around the globe. His latest tariff strike has world leaders scrambling, and Switzerland – famous for the Alps, chocolate, luxury watches and “cheese” – is in the firing line.
The US has slapped a massive 39 per cent import duty on Swiss goods. And the usually calm, neutral nation is now urgently looking for a way out. Their plan? Not the usual round of political talks and negotiations, but calling in two of their biggest sporting heavyweights to work their magic.
Fifa boss Gianni Infantino and tennis legend Roger Federer have been asked to open informal backchannels with President Trump.
Why the Swiss are turning to Federer and Infantino for help
And why these two, one might wonder? Two reasons – Infantino has Trump’s friendship and Federer has global celebrity charm. Together, they will get him to ease the pressure. But with Trump’s track record, will he listen? Or will Switzerland just end up with an even bigger bill?
“If personalities who know him have a conversation with him, we’re not against it. That’s not a strategy we can officially pursue,” said Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter.
In other words, Switzerland wants Federer and Infantino to do what they fear they can’t. And honestly, it’s not their worst idea.
When Federer speaks, the world listens. And given Trump’s fondness for sports, he might at least give them a listen.
Then there’s Gianni Infantino. His position as Fifa president is impressive. But it’s his personal friendship with Trump that’s priceless here. A friendship that’s only grown warmer since the Fifa Club World Cup.
Infantino even handed Trump the inaugural Club World Cup trophy. Maybe now he can cash in that favour: “I gave you the trophy — now how about you drop the tariffs?”
Impact Shorts
More ShortsIf he pulls it off, Infantino might just earn himself a “noble mediator” title.
But Switzerland’s up against a very unusual political figure. They’re not the first to try a sporting shortcut with Trump. And history shows it’s risky.
How a similar move backfired for South Africa
Earlier this year, South Africa’s president Cyril Ramaphosa brought golf stars Ernie Els and Retief Goosen into the Oval Office, hoping to smooth relations. This was after Trump accused South Africa of “white genocide.”
The meeting was all smiles, but days later, Trump hit them with 30% tariffs. Two elite golfers — playing Trump’s own sport — couldn’t move him.
So the odds are stacked here for infantino and federer…
Infantino’s friendship gives him an edge. And Federer? He brings a mix of charm, global respect, and household-name status. And since retiring, Federer has even taken up golf — another subtle link that could help break the ice with Trump.
Charm, diplomacy, and sportsmanship — Federer’s got it all.
But will it be enough to sway the most unpredictable president in modern history?
Switzerland’s gamble is clear – bypass the podiums and policy papers, and employ the most unusual strategy. It’s a high-stakes match — with tariffs, trade, and diplomacy all on the line.
Federer and Infantino can save Switzerland millions. If so – they’ll prove that sometimes, the right serve or the perfect pass can be just as powerful as any political handshake.
That is of course should Federer and Infantino choose to accept this mission.
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