FIFA warns of effort to undermine Infantino as leadership crisis deepens
FIFA has issued a formal warning against efforts to undermine President Gianni Infantino following the collapse of a controversial $4.2 billion commercial rights deal. The governing body insists that any leadership challenges must adhere to established democratic statutes and governance procedures.
Why it matters
The internal power struggle at the world's largest sports governing body threatens the stability of global football administration and future tournament financing.
FIFA on Saturday (August 8, 2026) warned against what it called a "concerted and ongoing effort" to undermine President Gianni Infantino , saying attempts to challenge his leadership must follow the governing body's statutes and democratic procedures.
The statement came amid an increasingly bitter standoff over Mr. Infantino's leadership following the collapse of his proposal to raise about $4.2 billion by selling a stake in the commercial rights of the World Cup and other tournaments.
The plan triggered criticism from UEFA, national associations and senior FIFA officials, led to calls for Infantino to resign and prompted a crisis meeting in Morocco this week at which FIFA's leadership reaffirmed its support for the president.
FIFA did not identify those it said were seeking to undermine Mr. Infantino or specify which reports or allegations it was referring to.
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