Gianni Infantino’s crisis is no longer just about an economic plan that angered football authorities; within days, it has escalated into a direct challenge to his position as FIFA President. Pressure on Infantino has intensified as internal opposition grows—spearheaded by key figures distancing themselves—alongside European efforts to find a rival candidate for the upcoming elections.
Arsène Wenger Publicly Disowns Infantino’s FIFA Privatization Plan
Arsène Wenger, FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development, has publicly disowned Infantino’s proposal to create a commercial entity and sell a stake in World Cup and tournament rights to private investors.
“I was not involved in this strategic plan and learned about the project through the media,” Wenger stated in an official release. “Withdrawing the project was necessary and unquestionable, as I strongly believe in an independent FIFA that serves our sport with commitment, transparency, and integrity.”
Wenger’s total rejection of the project represents a damaging blow to Infantino, especially given his high-ranking position inside FIFA. Reports also reveal that FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafström was kept in the dark regarding the project details. The plan aimed to raise $4.2 billion by selling a minority stake in a private company valued at $20 billion, intended to boost funding for national associations.
Political Isolation: Infantino Denies Seeking Trump’s Help After Wenger’s Rejection
Media reports claimed that Infantino attempted to contact U.S. President Donald Trump and members of his administration after feeling isolated following Wenger’s rejection and mounting criticism. Reports suggested the FIFA President was seeking influential allies to back him publicly amid a weakening position within FIFA and the prospect of facing a strong rival in the next election.
However, the FIFA Media Centre firmly denied these claims, stating: “The FIFA President has not contacted the President of the United States or any member of his administration in recent days. These allegations are entirely unfounded.”
The U.S. Department of State also denied any scheduled call between Infantino and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Infantino maintains a close relationship with Trump, having appeared alongside him at several events related to the 2026 World Cup, which fueled widespread interest in the rumors.
After Wenger’s Statement: UEFA Campaign Threatens Infantino’s Re-election
UEFA led the pushback against the privatization plan following internal distance from figures like Wenger, with all 55 European member associations rejecting any transfer of ownership stakes in the World Cup or other FIFA tournaments to private investors. UEFA threatened to boycott FIFA tournaments and meetings before the plan was pulled, while also raising the prospect of legal action and demanding the preservation of all related documents and communications.
The English FA has called for a comprehensive review of FIFA’s leadership and governance, Wales has withdrawn its endorsement of Infantino, and the Swedish Football Association confirmed European efforts to identify an alternative candidate. Infantino previously appeared set to secure another term uncontested, but the latest developments leave him facing his toughest political battle since taking office in 2016.
