FIFA accuses UEFA of ‘smear campaign’ over Infantino, World Cup plan
FIFA has accused UEFA of conducting a smear campaign after the European governing body sought U.S. legal documents regarding FIFA's abandoned World Cup investor plan. UEFA is investigating potential criminal mismanagement by FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
Why it matters
The conflict highlights deep-seated governance tensions and potential legal risks facing the leadership of global football's governing body.
UEFA seeks US testimony and documents for possible legal action; FIFA asks US court to defer or let it oppose UEFA’s request.
x whatsapp-stroke copylink google Add Al Jazeera on Google info FIFA President Gianni Infantino joins French President Emmanuel Macron and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at the Esports World Cup 2026 in Paris [Teresa Suarez/Reuters] By AFP Published On 3 Sep 2026 3 Sep 2026 FIFA has accused UEFA of a “smear campaign” and a “fishing expedition” after European football’s governing body asked United States judges to force FIFA to hand over documents related to its failed World Cup investor plan.
Global football body FIFA’s divisive plan to sell stakes in the World Cup to investors, unveiled in July, triggered a huge backlash across the sport, with UEFA threatening to boycott the World Cup unless the plan was scrapped.
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