Former FIFA Vice President Prince Ali accuses Infantino of 'blackmail' as presure on leadership mounts
Former FIFA Vice President Prince Ali bin Al Hussein has accused FIFA President Gianni Infantino of blackmail, alleging that payment of funds owed to the Jordanian football federation was tied to an endorsement of Infantino's leadership. This adds to the growing pressure on Infantino amid controversies over his proposed financial strategies.
Why it matters
The allegations highlight deep-seated governance issues within FIFA and threaten the stability of Infantino's presidency ahead of upcoming elections.
Former FIFA vice president Prince Ali bin Al Hussein was the latest football figure to criticise the leadership of Gianni Infantino on Tuesday, whose re-election is becoming increasingly uncertain.Prince Ali, the third son of King Hussein of Jordan, said the Jordanian federation he leads still has not been paid money due for reaching the final of the FIFA Arab Cup played last December in Qatar.In a social media post, Prince Ali said that during the World Cup — where Jordan made its debut in June — he was told if he endorsed FIFA President Gianni Infantino “it would go a long way to helping our FA out.”Infantino is under pressure to save his 11-year presidency amid a fierce backlash from global soccer leaders about his now-failed plan to sell a stake in future World Cup profits to investors led by Joshua Kushner.“We pride ourselves in Jordan in upholding ethical values.…
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