Infantino under fire as FIFA rebels threaten non‑cooperation

Sun Sep 06 2026 03:17:01 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Opponents threaten to halt cooperation with FIFA unless Gianni Infantino steps down as president – a decisive showdown over the controversial stake‑sale plan.

FIFA’s chief Gianni Infantino faces a coordinated backlash after his plan to create a commercial subsidiary drew criticism from European and other confederations. UEFA has sent letters demanding Infantino preserve documents and warned of legal action, while several national associations have withdrawn support. With 106 votes needed for his re‑election, Infantino’s position is increasingly isolated. The FIFA Council could convene an emergency meeting if 19 of 37 members call for it, paving the way to a forced resignation.

Infantino under fire as FIFA rebels threaten noncooperation

Gianni Infantino faces a coordinated backlash from national associations who have withdrawn their letters of support, signalling a resolve to stop cooperating with FIFA until he resigns.

The drama stems from a proposed commercial subsidiary, FFE, which would allow private investors to buy stakes in FIFA events. UEFA and Concacaf have opened letters demanding Infantino preserve documents and are threatening legal action.

Only a handful of confederations still back Infantino. Asian, African and other bodies largely abstain, leaving him dependent on a slim base of support. The FIFA Council could convene an emergency meeting if 19 of its 37 members call for one.

At the heart of the dispute is governance – will Infantino step down before mid‑2027, or will an emergency council force his resignation?