Jordan's FA denounces FIFA's alleged blackmail
Ali bin Hussein, president of Jordan’s Football Association, has publicly accused FIFA President Gianni Infantino of engaging in blackmail during negotiations surrounding the World Cup. Hussein says FIFA attempted to secure Jordan’s endorsement of Infantino by promising assistance that was previously denied, a move he describes as coercive and contrary to ethical standards.
The dispute centers on a controversial FIFA proposal to sell a stake in the World Cup, which was rejected by several soccer confederations and national associations. Although FIFA claimed the sale would generate billions for global sports development, opposition grew after Swiss officials imposed a strict deadline for the transaction.
FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom and former coach Arsene Wenger have both distanced themselves from Infantino amid mounting criticism within the organization’s hierarchy, further isolating the president-elect amid the controversy.
Jordan’s grievances extend beyond the alleged blackmail. Hussein highlighted visa denials for World Cup participants, exorbitant ticket prices imposed on fans, and an unfair tax burden levied by the United States government through FIFA that does not apply to teams from Canada or Mexico.
Jordan made history by qualifying for the World Cup for the first time, only to exit in the group stage, and the association says reward money promised for reaching the 2025 Arab Cup final remains unpaid, underscoring the financial strain on smaller nations.
The association insists it will not compromise its principles by endorsing Infantino, emphasizing that ethical considerations outweigh any potential benefits. The standoff illustrates the broader challenges faced by smaller footballing nations when confronting global governing bodies.