During a recent media briefing following Larry Berg’s introduction of Major League Soccer’s new commissioner, U.S. Soccer chief executive J.T. Batson faced a barrage of questions about the ongoing controversy surrounding FIFA president Gianni Infantino. Rather than delve into the specifics of the scandal, Batson steered the conversation toward upcoming board discussions about the future of global soccer.
A Calculated Silence
U.S. Soccer issued a public endorsement of Concacaf’s decision to reject Infantino’s plan to monetize FIFA Forward Enterprises, a move that would have involved selling stakes to investors such as Josh Kushner, a figure tied to former President Donald Trump. The federation’s stance was underscored by Concacaf’s recent call for a “comprehensive reckoning” with Infantino’s presidency, a phrase that has rippled through the soccer community.
The federation’s board is slated to convene in September to chart a course for the sport’s growth, sustainability, and community development. While the agenda emphasizes constructive dialogue, insiders note that the group remains uneasy about Infantino’s privatization overtures and the political ramifications they could entail.
Don Garber, a longtime U.S. Soccer board member and former federation president, indicated that he would defer to leadership on any definitive stance regarding Infantino’s future, while emphasizing that he possessed no privileged insight into the proposed privatization scheme.
In a separate development, U.S. Soccer announced the renewal of Mauricio Pochettino’s contract for a second term as head coach of the men’s national team. The agreement includes mutual protections that could shield the Argentine tactician from a premature exit before 2028, a timeline that aligns with potential European suitors eyeing his services, especially if the U.S. secures a prominent role in the 2028 Copa América.
The recent World Cup quarterfinal exit of the U.S. men’s team has intensified speculation about Pochettino’s long‑term commitment, but Batson expressed confidence that the coach’s renewed dedication will keep the federation’s ambitions on track.