Infantino Scraps World Cup Investment Plan Amid Backlash

FIFA President Gianni Infantino announced on Friday that the organization would scrap plans to sell private investors a stake in a new commercial venture tied to the World Cup. The decision came after widespread backlash from leading soccer organizations and top voices in the sport, including UEFA (the Union of European Football Associations) and CONCACAF.

The proposal had been met with criticism for being opaque and potentially detrimental to FIFA's member associations and the long-term future of the game. Carlos Cordeiro, a top advisor for FIFA, resigned on Friday, stating that he could not 'stand by while FIFA considers selling a stake in the World Cup.'

Infantino said that the decision was made after listening to all views and realizing that the project had created divisions that were no longer in the interest of the organization's objective. The UEFA statement on Saturday expressed loss of confidence in FIFA leadership and implied that 'shabby, back room, opaque' deals had been taking place.

The continued backlash has put Infantino's position at risk ahead of his reelection in 2027. Potential rivals may feel emboldened to challenge him, with Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa and Paris Saint-Germain President Nasser Al-Khelaifi being mentioned as possible contenders. However, UCLA law professor Steven Bank warns that Infantino will not be easily replaced due to his ability to deliver results and the existing governance structure allowing him to push through proposals.