Former FIFA VP Prince Ali cites 'blackmail' by Infantino-led soccer body over unpaid prize money
Former FIFA vice president Prince Ali bin Al Hussein has accused FIFA leadership of blackmail, claiming that prize money owed to the Jordanian national team is being withheld to force his political endorsement. FIFA has faced significant backlash regarding its financial management and leadership under Gianni Infantino.
Why it matters
The allegations highlight ongoing governance and ethical concerns within the world's governing body for soccer, impacting international sports diplomacy.
GENEVA (AP) — Former FIFA vice president Prince Ali bin Al Hussein criticized the soccer body’s leadership headed by Gianni Infantino on Tuesday, describing prize money withheld from his Jordan national team as a kind of blackmail. Prince Ali 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.
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