U.S. President Donald Trump publicly cautioned the world football governing body against ousting its president, Gianni Infantino, saying a change would be detrimental.
Infantino has been under intense scrutiny after his proposal to sell a minority stake in the men's World Cup to private investors was abandoned, sparking criticism from several continental confederations.
European and Asian football authorities, along with CONCACAF, have begun discussions about creating alternative competitions and have demanded an independent review of Infantino's commercial plan.
Trump's statement on Truth Social
"Fifa would be making a terrible mistake if, for any reason, they even considered replacing president Gianni Infantino. "He is fantastic, having just 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!" Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform on Tuesday.
Continental federations call for accountability
UEFA, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and CONCACAF have jointly issued an open letter urging FIFA to conduct an independent review of Infantino's failed commercial venture, which they described as deceptive.
"Leadership in football is not a possession," the letter said, adding that when trust is broken, the duty owed to the football family is abandoned.
Infantino's response and upcoming election
Following the backlash, Infantino apologized for the aborted FIFA Forward Enterprise plan, which aimed to sell roughly 20% of tournament operating rights to private investors.
While he has not announced a resignation, the confederations have indicated they would prefer a dignified exit before the March 2025 FIFA presidential election, and they continue to explore the possibility of a boycott of FIFA competitions.