FIFA's Infantino Secures Presidency Amid Missteps

Sun Sep 06 2026 02:57:47 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

FIFA’s board backs Infantino after admitting missteps in its private‑investment proposal, igniting criticism and promises structural review.

Facing backlash over a secretive plan to market FIFA competitions to private investors, Gianni Infantino convened a board meeting in Rabat. Senior executives reaffirmed support for Infantino, even as UEFA questioned his leadership. FIFA apologized for the mishandling and pledged a review to safeguard governance. The federation also denied a rumor that Infantino offered Morocco a 2030 World Cup final spot in exchange for backing.

FIFA's Infantino Secures Presidency Amid Missteps

Gianni Infantino was first elected FIFA president in 2016.

After admitting that a secret bid to sell stakes in FIFA competitions to private investors had reached the wrong audience, the governing body said it would review how decisions are made. The federation has apologised for “mistakes” that left member associations out‑of‑the‑loop.

In a meeting held on Wednesday in Morocco’s football headquarters, Infantino called senior executives to restate his leadership. Despite criticism from UEFA and internal figures like secretary‑general Mattias Grofstrom, the management board reaffirmed full support for Infantino as president.

The proposed plan – the FFE – would have granted a $40‑million payment to member associations willing to back private investment in the men’s and women’s World Cups and other tournaments. The Times had exposed the plan on 28 July, prompting FIFA to call the leak an “error.”

FIFA’s statement added that it would not tolerate further attacks on its integrity and would safeguard its name and reputation. It also denied a story that Infantino had promised Morocco a 2030 World Cup final if it delivered behind‑closed‑door support. A decision on hosting the final is still pending.