Trump says would be 'terrible mistake' to replace FIFA's Infantino
Former U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly defended FIFA President Gianni Infantino amid allegations of workplace misconduct and financial mismanagement. Trump praised Infantino's leadership of the World Cup, positioning himself against domestic soccer organizations calling for accountability.
Why it matters
Demonstrates the influence of political figures in international sports governance and the polarization surrounding FIFA's leadership.
U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday (August 10, 2026) backed FIFA president Gianni Infantino, who is in hot water over allegations of a workplace affair and criticism of a failed private investment scheme.
"FIFA would be making a terrible mistake if, for any reason, they even considered replacing President Gianni Infantino," Mr. Trump said in a Truth Social post, calling the Italian-Swiss lawyer "fantastic" and saying he "presided over the most successful World Cup, by four times, ever presented."
"If he is gone, it will never be as successful or profitable again!"
Mr. Trump's backing of Mr. Infantino contrasts with the response of U.S. Soccer, which issued a statement critiquing the FIFA leader alongside Canada Soccer and football organizations in Central America and the Caribbean.
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