FIFA has issued a warning about what it describes as a “concerted and ongoing effort” to undermine its organization and its president, Gianni Infantino. The statement came amid escalating tensions surrounding Infantino’s leadership after a proposed plan to create a subsidiary managing men’s World Cup events was abandoned following widespread criticism.
The plan involved offering up to a 20% stake in the new entity to external investors, which drew immediate opposition from UEFA, several national football associations, and senior FIFA officials. UEFA went as far as threatening to boycott future World Cups over the proposal, and key figures called for Infantino’s resignation. Despite this backlash, Infantino secured full support from FIFA’s Board of Management during a crisis meeting held in Rabat, Morocco.
New Allegations Intensify Pressure
Pressure on Infantino further mounted after a report in the Daily Telegraph claimed he had paid a six-figure sum to a female employee during his time as UEFA general secretary, alleging a personal relationship. UEFA confirmed that a departure payment was made along with funding for the staff member’s MBA, stating both complied with regulations at the time. Infantino has strongly denied these allegations.
FIFA responded to ongoing scrutiny by condemning recent media reports for containing “unsubstantiated assertions and demonstrably false claims” regarding both the organization and Infantino, without directly referencing the Daily Telegraph article.
Leadership Crisis Deepens Over Investment Plan
The fallout from the failed private investment proposal has overshadowed Infantino’s campaign for a fourth term as FIFA president. Following the recent crisis meeting, UEFA announced it no longer has confidence in Infantino, and Norway’s Football Association President, Lise Klaveness, called for his resignation.
Despite these developments, Infantino retains solid support from several FIFA members. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) unanimously backs his leadership, while CONMEBOL opposes attempts to remove him without a full vote of member associations. FIFA emphasized that those lacking member association backing should not resort to allegations or misinformation to achieve their goals instead of using FIFA’s established democratic processes.
FIFA’s Position Amid Growing Dispute
The organization insists external parties should not undermine FIFA’s governance through public campaigns. The situation highlights ongoing divisions within global football governance and raises questions about Infantino’s future amidst the controversy and internal dissent.
