Zurich: FIFA President Gianni Infantino is navigating the most formidable political challenge of his decade-long tenure. This turbulence follows an unexpected backlash from global football federations over Infantino's proposal to sell a stake in FIFA's commercial operations. The plan, which sought to sell up to 20% of a newly established commercial subsidiary, FIFA Forward Enterprise, valued at approximately $20 billion, ignited widespread disapproval.
According to Anadolu Agency, the controversy erupted shortly after the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a commercially successful tournament that initially seemed to bolster Infantino's prospects for a fourth term. Previously, over 200 of FIFA's 211 member associations reportedly supported his re-election. However, this support quickly dissipated when FIFA announced the controversial commercial deal involving Thrive Eternal, Bann Ventures, JPMorgan, and OpenEconomics. Thrive Eternal's association with Josh Kushner, the brother of Jared Kushner, added further scrutiny. Criticism arose from several continental confederations, alleging FIFA's failure to adequately consult its members regarding this significant decision.
In response to mounting opposition, Infantino retracted the proposal on August 1. However, this retreat failed to alleviate tensions. UEFA and other regional bodies, including CONCACAF, questioned Infantino's leadership, with several national associations, such as Finland, Wales, and Serbia, formally withdrawing support for his re-election. This dispute has emerged as FIFA's most significant governance challenge since Infantino succeeded Sepp Blatter in 2016.
Removing a FIFA president mid-term remains complex. A voluntary resignation is an option, but Infantino has shown no inclination to step down. Alternatively, member associations representing at least 20% of FIFA's membership can request an extraordinary Congress to vote on the president's future. Despite UEFA's capacity to initiate such a meeting, it has not done so. Any removal attempt would require majority support from FIFA's global membership, where each national association holds one vote. Additionally, FIFA's independent Ethics Committee could investigate alleged breaches, although no formal inquiry has been initiated in this case.
The upcoming FIFA presidential election is slated for March 18, 2027, in Rabat, Morocco, with nominations closing on November 18. Should the presidency become vacant before then, FIFA's Governance Regulations allow the longest-serving vice president to assume responsibilities temporarily until a successor is elected.
The controversy has highlighted significant divisions among FIFA's six continental confederations. UEFA has been the most vocal critic, condemning the proposal as opaque and misaligned with FIFA's transparency commitments. Some UEFA member associations have considered legal options and distanced themselves from Infantino. CONCACAF also criticized the proposal, urging a comprehensive review of FIFA's governance. The Asian Football Confederation joined the criticism but refrained from threatening competition boycotts. Conversely, Africa's CAF and South America's CONMEBOL have remained supportive of Infantino, with CAF President Patrice Motsepe advocating for a review rather than outright rejection.
The proposal has also drawn criticism from national federations and senior football officials. The Football Association of Wales highlighted leadership and transparency failures in withdrawing support, while Germany's Football Association echoed concerns about inadequate consultation. La Liga President Javier Tebas called for Infantino's resignation. Within FIFA, senior adviser Carlos Cordeiro resigned in protest, and COO Kevin Lamour criticized the project's handling.
Speculation about potential successors has surfaced, although no formal challengers have emerged. Names mentioned include Paris Saint-Germain chairman Nasser Al-Khelaifi, CONCACAF President Victor Montagliani, and Asian Football Confederation President Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa. Other potential candidates include UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin, Legia Warsaw owner Dariusz Mioduski, and FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom. Despite the controversy, Infantino's support from Africa and South America means any removal effort before 2027 would require a broad coalition beyond Europe.