Trump says it would be 'terrible mistake' to remove Infantino
US President Donald Trump has publicly defended FIFA President Gianni Infantino against calls for his removal following controversy over the proposed 'Fifa Forward Enterprise' (FFE) plan. Trump praised Infantino's leadership during the 2026 World Cup and warned that replacing him would be a mistake.
Why it matters
The intervention highlights the intersection of global sports governance, private investment, and political influence.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, US President Donald Trump was awarded the Fifa Peace Prize by Infantino in 2025
US President Donald Trump says it would be a "terrible mistake" if under pressure Fifa president Gianni Infantino was ousted from his position.
Trump's backing followed Uefa, Concacaf and the Asian Football Confederation issuing an open letter accusing Infantino of breaking trust "through deception" with his aborted Fifa Forward Enterprise (FFE) proposal.
FFE would have meant a new company being created to manage commercial and ticketing rights of all Fifa competitions, including World Cups, with 21% sold off to a private investment company.
Trump's comments are the first time he has come out in defence of Infantino since the FFE plans came to light on 28 July.
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