FIFA President Gianni Infantino is facing mounting criticism over a controversial proposal to sell shares in the FIFA World Cup, a plan that has since been abandoned amid significant backlash. The Swiss official, who remains under pressure to retain his position ahead of the upcoming presidential election, is also confronting internal dissent and allegations of coercion related to the initiative.
The controversy escalated as key figures within the football community voiced concerns about the leadership and decision-making processes at FIFA. Prince Ali bin Hussein, president of the Jordan Football Association and a former FIFA presidential candidate who lost to Infantino in 2016, publicly accused Infantino and FIFA of engaging in what he described as “blackmail.” Prince Ali highlighted grievances he had raised with FIFA, including difficulties faced by fans entering the United States, tax issues linked to FIFA’s organization of tournaments, and prize money distribution for the Arab Cup. According to Prince Ali, FIFA delayed addressing these concerns until he was informed that an endorsement of Infantino would benefit his national association. He characterized this as an unacceptable attempt to condition support on political backing, a claim FIFA declined to comment on.
The backlash within FIFA’s ranks was echoed by several senior officials. Arsene Wenger, FIFA’s chief of global football development and former Arsenal manager, said he was completely unaware of the share sale plan until it was publicly reported. Wenger strongly supported the decision to withdraw the proposal, emphasizing the need for FIFA to operate with independence, transparency, and integrity. “The decision to withdraw the project was absolutely necessary,” he stated, underlining his commitment to serving the sport impartially.
Further dissent was voiced by FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom, who described the events surrounding the proposal as “sad and reproachable” in an internal memo to staff. He criticized the situation as “difficult to comprehend and accept,” highlighting internal frustrations with the handling of the plan.
The turmoil surrounding Infantino and the failed share sale initiative comes as FIFA officials prepare for critical discussions in Morocco aimed at managing the fallout. Meanwhile, certain FIFA executives reportedly consider withdrawing their support for Infantino’s re-election bid, indicating a growing rift within the organization’s leadership ahead of the vote scheduled for next year.