Pressure Mounts on FIFA President Gianni Infantino Over World Cup Stake Sale
European soccer leagues, including the Premier League, La Liga and Serie A, have intensified pressure on FIFA President Gianni Infantino, demanding governance reforms after his attempt to sell stakes in the World Cup collapsed.
The proposal, promoted under the banner of FIFA Forward Enterprise, was dismissed by the European Leagues as a dangerous move that would upend the sport’s governance and prioritize commercial interests over competitive integrity.
In response, UEFA issued a stark warning, stating that it would boycott the World Cup if Infantino proceeds with the commercial venture, signaling a deepening rift between the governing body and its European constituents.
CONCACAF added its voice, accusing FIFA leadership of prioritizing profit over the integrity of football, further eroding confidence in Infantino’s presidency.
The fallout has extended beyond public statements. Senior FIFA adviser Carlos Cordeiro resigned, and chief operating officer Kevin Lamour accused Infantino of misleading staff about the transparency of the Forward Enterprise initiative.
Even high‑profile figures such as Arsène Wenger and Mattias Grafström have distanced themselves from the proposal, underscoring the internal divisions that now plague the organization.
A crisis meeting convened in Rabat ahead of the upcoming FIFA election, where Infantino seeks a fourth term, has heightened expectations that his tenure could be contested.
European Leagues also oppose a proposal to expand the World Cup to 64 teams, arguing that reforms must precede any expansion of the competition.