FIFA Condemns Campaign to Oust President Infantino

FIFA has issued a sharp statement strongly criticising what it describes as a concerted and ongoing effort to undermine the organisation and its president, Gianni Infantino. The world football governing body called the campaign an attempt to destabilise football's global governance.

Nature of the Campaign

The campaign against Infantino has reportedly gathered support among some national football associations and influential figures within European football. Critics have raised concerns about governance, transparency, and the concentration of power within FIFA under his leadership since 2016.

UEFA, Europe's governing body, has been among the more vocal critics, raising questions about rule changes that benefited Infantino's allies and the expanding role of Saudi Arabia in global football under his watch.

FIFA's Defence

FIFA's statement insisted that Infantino has the full confidence of member associations representing billions of football fans worldwide. The organisation warned that attempts to destabilise FIFA were ultimately harmful to the sport itself and those who love it.

Infantino, who has served as FIFA president since 2016, has overseen a significant expansion in the number of World Cup teams and negotiated major commercial deals. His supporters argue that these changes have benefited football globally.

UEFA Inquiry Reported

British newspaper reports also indicated that UEFA is considering a formal inquiry into aspects of FIFA's governance. Such a move would mark a significant escalation in the standoff between football's two most powerful institutions.