European soccer says it has lost confidence in FIFA chief Gianni Infantino as investment plan scrapped
The French Football Federation (FFF) has officially withdrawn its support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino, with FFF president Philippe Diallo stating that trust has been broken. This loss of support coincides with FIFA preparing to present a review of Infantino's shelved World Cup selloff investment plan to the governing body's Council. These developments follow the collapse of the FIFA Forward Enterprise scheme and ongoing pressure for Infantino to resign before his planned 2027 re-election bid.
Listen to Live Briefing
Real-time synthesized voice briefing · Live Feeds Desk
- ✓ French Football Federation president Philippe Diallo officially announced the withdrawal of support for Gianni Infantino.
- ✓ FIFA will present a review of Gianni Infantino's failed World Cup selloff investment plan to the Council.
What changed
The French FA officially ended its support for Infantino and FIFA scheduled a Council review of the failed investment plan.
Live updates
-
French FA withdraws support for Gianni Infantino as FIFA reviews failed plan
The French Football Federation (FFF) has officially withdrawn its support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino, with FFF president Philippe Diallo stating that trust has been broken. This loss of support coincides with FIFA preparing to present a review of Infantino's shelved World Cup selloff investment plan to the governing body's Council. These developments follow the collapse of the FIFA Forward Enterprise scheme and ongoing pressure for Infantino to resign before his planned 2027 re-election bid.
Why it matters
UEFA is currently preparing potential criminal proceedings and seeking document disclosure against Infantino. The president intends to serve a final term ending in 2031 despite opposition from regional bodies and national associations.
What is confirmed
- French Football Federation president Philippe Diallo officially announced the withdrawal of support for Gianni Infantino.
- FIFA will present a review of Gianni Infantino's failed World Cup selloff investment plan to the Council.
What to watch next
- The outcome of the FIFA Council review regarding the shelved investment plan
- The initiation of criminal proceedings by UEFA
- The disclosure of requested documents to UEFA
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (4)
- sports.yahoo.com — ‘Trust has been broken’ – French FA officially withdraws support for Gianni Infantino
- www.theguardian.com — Manchester United ban 685 season-ticket holders over touting; Watford sign Antonio: football news – live
- www.skysports.com — Football latest news & gossip
- www.aljazeera.com — FIFA to present review of Infantino’s shelved investment plan to Council
-
Gianni Infantino to seek 2027 FIFA re-election amid UEFA legal threats
FIFA President Gianni Infantino will run for re-election in 2027 for a final term ending in 2031. This decision comes despite intense pressure and calls for his resignation following the collapse of the FIFA Forward Enterprise scheme. While Infantino intends to remain in power, UEFA is preparing potential criminal proceedings against him and has requested the disclosure of documents. FIFA is expected to cover the legal costs for the president as regional bodies and national associations maintain their opposition to his leadership.
Why it matters
The conflict stems from a failed proposal to sell a minority stake in the World Cup. UEFA, AFC, and CONCACAF viewed this plan as a deception and a breach of trust. This has created a divide between Infantino and several national soccer associations.
What is confirmed
- Gianni Infantino will seek re-election as FIFA president in 2027.
- Infantino's potential final term would run until 2031.
- The president faces pressure following the abandonment of the FIFA Forward Enterprise scheme.
Still unconfirmed
- UEFA is considering launching criminal proceedings against Gianni Infantino.
- FIFA expects to pay for Infantino's legal costs.
What to watch next
- UEFA's decision on whether to formally file criminal charges
- The emergence of a challenger for the 2027 FIFA presidency
- FIFA's official response to the document disclosure request
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (4)
- www.nytimes.com — FIFA expected to cover Gianni Infantino’s legal costs as UEFA considers criminal proceedings
- www.nytimes.com — FIFA confirms Gianni Infantino will stand for re-election in 2027, despite opposition
- apnews.com — Infantino to stand for re-election as FIFA president despite failed World Cup sell-off plan
- www.outlookindia.com — Gianni Infantino To Seek Re-Election As FIFA President In 2027 Despite Growing Backlash Over World Cup Plan
-
European soccer loses confidence in FIFA chief Gianni Infantino
FIFA President Gianni Infantino faces growing opposition as European soccer and other regional bodies express distrust following a failed plan to sell a minority stake in the World Cup. UEFA, CONCACAF, and AFC claim the proposal was a 'fundamental breach of trust' and 'deception.' Several nations and soccer legends have called for Infantino's resignation or FIFA reform, while some, like Samuel Eto'o, still support him.
Why it matters
The controversy surrounding Infantino's leadership has created divisions within the soccer community, pitting European and other regional powerbrokers against him. This opposition comes as Infantino seeks to maintain his leadership despite the scrapped investment strategy. The situation has implications for FIFA's governance and future collaborations with other soccer bodies.
What is confirmed
- UEFA is set to formally withdraw its threat to boycott FIFA competitions after receiving assurances Gianni Infantino's failed World Cup sell-off plan will not be revived.
- The Italian soccer federation has withdrawn its support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino due to his recent governance initiatives.
- Concacaf president Victor Montagliani reportedly told Gianni Infantino to consider skipping a youth event in the Dominican Republic, saying it would 'undermine' the tournament.
- Soccer legends Robert Pires and Juan Sebastian Veron are among those calling for FIFA reform.
Still unconfirmed
- Samuel Eto'o thinks FIFA President Gianni Infantino has done nothing wrong and wants the controversial FFE proposal back on the table for discussion.
What to watch next
- FIFA's future governance initiatives
- Gianni Infantino's response to growing opposition
- UEFA's formal decision on boycotting FIFA events
confidence 85%Sources used for this update (7)
- sports.yahoo.com — FIFA president Gianni Infantino says he received 'warm welcome' in visit to Caribbean tournament despite Concacaf president asking him not to attend
- www.cnn.com — The walls appeared to be closing in on Gianni Infantino. Not everyone wants him gone
- sports.yahoo.com — Robert Pires, Juan Sebastian Veron, lead soccer legends calling for FIFA reform
- apnews.com — Italy latest nation to pull support for Infantino’s reelection as FIFA president
- www.aljazeera.com — UEFA set to end FIFA boycott threat over Infantino’s $20bn investor plan
- apnews.com — UEFA set to end threat of FIFA events boycott over Infantino’s failed World Cup investor plan
- www.nytimes.com — ‘No future for Gianni Infantino’: European Leagues president calls for FIFA reforms
-
European and Global Soccer Bodies Accuse FIFA Chief of Deception
FIFA President Gianni Infantino faces demands to resign after a failed plan to sell a minority stake in the World Cup. UEFA, CONCACAF, and AFC claim the proposal constituted a "fundamental breach of trust" and "deception." While the head of the Norwegian soccer federation has urged Infantino to quit, the president maintains support from six Arab soccer federations. This divide pits European and other regional powerbrokers against Infantino as he attempts to maintain leadership despite the scrapped investment strategy.
Why it matters
Infantino previously apologized for errors regarding the private investment plan during a meeting in Rabat. The conflict centers on whether the FIFA president misled member institutions about the sale of World Cup interests. This struggle tests the stability of global soccer governance.
What is confirmed
- UEFA, CONCACAF, and AFC describe Infantino's World Cup sell-off plan as a "fundamental breach of trust".
- Six Arab soccer federations expressed "full support" and "confidence" in Gianni Infantino.
Still unconfirmed
- The head of the Norwegian soccer federation has urged Gianni Infantino to resign.
- European soccer bodies may boycott FIFA.
What to watch next
- Official resignation or retention announcement from Gianni Infantino
- Formal voting or resolutions from UEFA regarding FIFA leadership
- Further statements from CONCACAF or AFC on potential sanctions
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (4)
- www.cnn.com — Gianni Infantino is in a mire of his own making. With the threat of a European boycott, can he ride out the storm?
- sports.yahoo.com — Gianni Infantino told ‘there is no way back’ as Norway chief urges him to quit
- apnews.com — UEFA, CONCACAF and AFC accuse FIFA of ‘deception’ and ‘breach of trust’ over World Cup plans
- apnews.com — FIFA chief Infantino receives support from 6 Arab federations amid revolt over World Cup plan
-
Gianni Infantino retains FIFA presidency after apologizing for investment errors
FIFA President Gianni Infantino will remain in his post following support from senior executives during a meeting in Rabat. Infantino offered a sincere apology for errors regarding a controversial plan to sell a minority stake in the World Cup to private investors. While he maintains his leadership role, he faces continued pressure from European soccer associations. FIFA has warned it will take all necessary measures to protect the organization's name and reputation amidst the ongoing criticism.
Why it matters
UEFA previously withdrew confidence in Infantino, calling the $20 billion investment proposal a shabby, back room deal. The plan was scrapped after threats of legal action from European associations. This conflict highlights a rift between FIFA leadership and European governing bodies over the commercialization of the tournament.
What is confirmed
- Gianni Infantino will remain FIFA president after receiving backing from senior executives.
- Infantino apologized for errors in his private investment plans.
- Arsene Wenger stated the decision to withdraw the investment plan was absolutely necessary and beyond question.
Still unconfirmed
- Infantino summoned FIFA leadership to Rabat to secure their support.
What to watch next
- UEFA's official response to Infantino's apology
- Further legal challenges from European soccer associations
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (5)
- sports.yahoo.com — Wenger says FIFA U-turn was 'necessary' as Infantino under pressure
- www.bbc.co.uk — Fifa latest: Uefa says backing for Infantino changes nothing
- www.bbc.co.uk — Infantino sorry for errors but stays Fifa president
- sports.yahoo.com — Infantino Apologizes For ‘Errors’ But Will Remain FIFA President Despite Chorus Of Criticism
- www.nytimes.com — Gianni Infantino fights on as FIFA president after leadership backing. So, what now?
-
European soccer loses confidence in FIFA's Gianni Infantino
European soccer's governing body UEFA has declared it has lost confidence in FIFA President Gianni Infantino over a scrapped plan to sell a minority stake in the World Cup. The plan, worth $20 billion, was abandoned after widespread backlash from European soccer associations and threats of legal action. UEFA accused Infantino of a 'shabby, back room' deal. This development has significant implications for Infantino's leadership and the future of FIFA.
Why it matters
The controversy surrounding Infantino's plan to privatize the World Cup has led to a rift between UEFA and FIFA. The proposed sale of a 20% stake in the tournament's logistics was met with fierce opposition from European soccer associations, who feared it would compromise the integrity of the sport. Infantino's leadership is now under scrutiny, with some calling for his resignation.
What is confirmed
- UEFA has lost confidence in FIFA President Gianni Infantino
- FIFA scrapped a $20 billion plan to sell a minority stake in the World Cup
- The plan was abandoned after widespread backlash from European soccer associations
- UEFA accused Infantino of a 'shabby, back room' deal
Still unconfirmed
- Infantino's leadership is under threat as some call for his resignation
What to watch next
- Infantino's response to UEFA's declaration of no confidence
- FIFA's future plans for World Cup financing
- Potential legal action from UEFA against FIFA and Joshua Kushner
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (12)
- CBS News — European soccer says it has lost confidence in FIFA chief Gianni Infantino as investment plan scrapped
- ESPN — Infantino scraps FIFA World Cup sell-off plan after backlash
- The New York Times — UEFA has ‘lost confidence’ in Gianni Infantino, accuses him of ‘shabby, back room’ deal - The Athletic
- BBC — Gianni Infantino and four days that shook football - and the echoes of European Super League
- CNN — FIFA scraps controversial $20 billion World Cup investment plan
- AP News — UEFA declares no confidence in Infantino and vows accountability for failed World Cup equity plan
- The Guardian — There can be no letup. Humiliated Infantino must stand down at Fifa or be removed | Nick Ames
- CNN — European soccer declares loss of confidence in FIFA chief over ’shabby’ private financing plan
- www.france24.com — European football body declares no confidence in FIFA's Infantino after World Cup sell-off plan
- www.nytimes.com — Inside the week that shook Gianni Infantino, FIFA and the football world
- sports.yahoo.com — First FIFA member association to pull support from Gianni Infantino’s Presidency revealed
- www.nytimes.com — UEFA threatens FIFA, Joshua Kushner with legal action over World Cup investment plan
-
European soccer loses confidence in FIFA's Gianni Infantino
European soccer's governing body UEFA has declared it has lost confidence in FIFA President Gianni Infantino over a scrapped plan to sell a minority stake in the World Cup. The plan, worth $20 billion, was abandoned after widespread backlash. UEFA accused Infantino of a 'shabby, back room' deal. This development has significant implications for Infantino's leadership and the future of FIFA.
Why it matters
The controversy surrounding Infantino's plan to privatize the World Cup has led to a rift between UEFA and FIFA. The European soccer body is demanding accountability and transparency from FIFA. This crisis comes ahead of the 2027 FIFA Elections, where Infantino's position is precarious.
What is confirmed
- UEFA has lost confidence in FIFA President Gianni Infantino
- FIFA scrapped a $20 billion investment plan for the World Cup
- The investment plan was abandoned after widespread backlash
- UEFA accused Infantino of a 'shabby, back room' deal
Still unconfirmed
- Infantino must stand down at FIFA or be removed
What to watch next
- FIFA's future leadership and the 2027 FIFA Elections
- Potential legal action from UEFA against FIFA and Joshua Kushner
- Further developments in the relationship between UEFA and FIFA
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (12)
- CBS News — European soccer says it has lost confidence in FIFA chief Gianni Infantino as investment plan scrapped
- ESPN — Infantino scraps FIFA World Cup sell-off plan after backlash
- The New York Times — UEFA has ‘lost confidence’ in Gianni Infantino, accuses him of ‘shabby, back room’ deal - The Athletic
- BBC — Gianni Infantino and four days that shook football - and the echoes of European Super League
- CNN — FIFA scraps controversial $20 billion World Cup investment plan
- AP News — UEFA declares no confidence in Infantino and vows accountability for failed World Cup equity plan
- The Guardian — There can be no letup. Humiliated Infantino must stand down at Fifa or be removed | Nick Ames
- CNN — European soccer declares loss of confidence in FIFA chief over ’shabby’ private financing plan
- www.france24.com — European football body declares no confidence in FIFA's Infantino after World Cup sell-off plan
- www.nytimes.com — Inside the week that shook Gianni Infantino, FIFA and the football world
- sports.yahoo.com — First FIFA member association to pull support from Gianni Infantino’s Presidency revealed
- www.nytimes.com — UEFA threatens FIFA, Joshua Kushner with legal action over World Cup investment plan
Community Sentiment: How do you assess this situation?
Voice your perspective · Real-time aggregated sentiment from the Live Feeds community