Infantino says he is backed by ‘vast majority’
Fifa president Gianni Infantino says he retains the support of the “vast, vast majority” of world football, brushing off questions about whether he should resign. The dispute follows a controversial proposal to sell part of Fifa’s commercial rights to a private investment firm, which Infantino withdrew within days.
Uefa and other confederation leaders accused him of breaking trust, while Uefa has demanded key documents by 2 November. Infantino apologised to the Fifa Council over consultation but gave no clear date for providing the requested papers. He cited support from Asian and African football associations, and has proposed an extra $3.4bn (£2.6bn) for global football development; his re-election next year appears likely.
In short
- Infantino says most of world football backs him.
- Fifa scrapped its commercial rights investment proposal.
- Uefa wants key documents by 2 November.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Infantino’s supporters can argue that the proposal was withdrawn quickly and that he acknowledged shortcomings in consultation, while his backing among many national associations suggests confidence in his leadership. They may also see the proposed additional $3.4bn for development as a significant potential benefit for football worldwide.
The case against
Critics can argue that proposing to sell part of Fifa’s commercial rights without adequate consultation damaged trust and warrants full scrutiny, even though the plan was withdrawn. They may say that an apology without a clear date for providing requested documents does not resolve concerns about transparency or accountability.
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