FIFA crisis: Jordan chief accuses Infantino of ‘blackmail’ over endorsement
Prince Ali bin Hussein of Jordan has publicly accused FIFA President Gianni Infantino of blackmail, alleging that FIFA offered to assist the Jordanian Football Association in exchange for his political endorsement. This accusation follows Infantino's failed attempt to sell a stake in the World Cup, which faced significant backlash from global football confederations.
Why it matters
The allegations highlight deep-seated governance issues and internal power struggles within FIFA, potentially damaging the organization's credibility and leadership stability.
Fallout from failed FIFA World Cup selloff continues, as Jordan’s football association president joins list of Gianni Infantino detractors.
x whatsapp-stroke copylink google Add Al Jazeera on Google info Prince Ali bin Hussein, president of Jordan's football association, is seen with FIFA President Gianni Infantino in the stands during an Arab Cup match in 2021 [Amr Abdallah Dalsh/Reuters] By Reuters Published On 4 Aug 2026 4 Aug 2026 Jordan Football Association President Ali bin Hussein has launched a public attack on Gianni Infantino, accusing the FIFA president of “blackmail” and claiming FIFA offered to help solve the kingdom’s problems in exchange for his endorsement.
Bin Hussein alleged on Tuesday that FIFA verbally communicated during the World Cup that endorsing Infantino “would go a long way to helping our FA out” after months of the world football governing body refusing assistance on various matters.
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