Infantino Apologises Amid FIFA Investment Row
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has apologised after admitting mistakes over a controversial proposal to introduce private investment into the FIFA World Cup and other major FIFA competitions. However, he retained the backing of FIFA’s top executives following an emergency meeting in Rabat, Morocco.
The meeting took place on Wednesday at FIFA’s Africa Office. Four hours later, FIFA executives issued a statement reaffirming their support for Infantino. FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafström, who attended the meeting, had earlier described the incident as “regrettable and condemnable” in an internal memo.
Infantino and Grafström later sent a joint letter to FIFA’s vice-presidents, Council members and all 211–member associations, apologising and promising that such mistakes would not happen again. FIFA said the meeting would strengthen its governance and help restore confidence, although analysts believe, it is unlikely to ease UEFA’s concerns.
The controversy began after Infantino announced, without consulting the Board, a proposal to bring private investors into the commercial and ticketing rights of the FIFA World Cup and other tournaments. The plan, linked to associates of US President Donald Trump, sparked criticism from fans, politicians and regional football bodies, particularly in Europe.
Mr. Infantino said, the proposal would provide each FIFA member association with up to $40 million over four years to support football development. Member associations backing the plan would receive an initial $20 million from January, while those voting in favour would receive an additional one-off $20 million bonus.
Despite the apology, criticism has continued. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said, he no longer has confidence in Infantino’s leadership, when former Portugal captain Luís Figo called for his resignation. UEFA has also threatened legal action, and several member associations, including Wales, have withdrawn support for Infantino’s re-election.
56-year-old Gianni Infantino is preparing to seek a fourth term as FIFA president. Nominations close on November 18, with the election scheduled to take place in Morocco next March.
