WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump has publicly backed FIFA President Gianni Infantino, warning that removing him from office would be a “terrible mistake.”
Trump said FIFA should not even consider replacing Infantino, praising him as “fantastic” and crediting his leadership for what he described as the most successful World Cup ever.
“If he is gone, it will never be as successful or profitable again,” Trump said, according to reports.
Infantino is facing growing pressure from several football governing bodies following controversy over a proposal involving private investment in FIFA’s commercial rights.
The proposal was withdrawn after strong opposition, while calls for changes in FIFA leadership have continued.
Trump’s intervention comes as Infantino faces a challenge to his leadership ahead of FIFA’s next presidential election.
Earlier, Disagreements within world football’s governing body FIFA have intensified as major confederations voiced concerns over President Gianni Infantino’s leadership style and decision-making process.
European football’s governing body UEFA, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), and the Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) issued a joint letter expressing serious reservations over Infantino’s approach.
The three confederations criticized a proposed plan to sell a 20% share of World Cup commercial rights to private investors, saying the move had damaged mutual trust among FIFA members.
The proposal was reportedly aimed at generating around $4.2 billion in revenue but was eventually abandoned following strong opposition from stakeholders.
In their joint statement, the confederations called for a fully independent investigation into the matter and said FIFA needed leadership that prioritizes the collective interests of football.
