FIFA President Gianni Infantino is set to hold a crisis meeting with senior FIFA officials in Morocco as pressure mounts following the collapse of his controversial proposal to sell part of FIFA’s commercial rights. The failed plan has triggered widespread criticism from football governing bodies and cast uncertainty over his bid for a fourth term as FIFA president.
Crisis Meeting in Morocco
Infantino will meet top FIFA officials on Wednesday at the organisation’s Africa office in Sale, Morocco, as he seeks to stabilise support ahead of the FIFA presidential election in March 2027.
The meeting comes after his proposal to sell 20% of FIFA’s new commercial rights entity to private investors in exchange for $4.2 billion was withdrawn following strong opposition.
Commercial Rights Plan Sparks Backlash
The proposal drew criticism from several football associations due to concerns over FIFA’s commercial independence and reports that one of the companies involved had family links to US President Donald Trump.
Although Infantino abandoned the plan last week, critics argue the move has not restored confidence in his leadership.
UEFA Questions Infantino’s Leadership
European football governing body UEFA has emerged as one of Infantino’s strongest critics.
UEFA accused the FIFA president of attempting to “sell the soul of football” and stated that it no longer has confidence in his leadership.
The criticism has raised doubts about what once appeared to be an easy path toward Infantino’s re-election.
Internal FIFA Concerns Emerge
Reports indicate that senior FIFA officials have also expressed concerns over the failed proposal.
FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom reportedly circulated an internal memo describing the events surrounding the project as regrettable and confirming that the proposal had been permanently abandoned.
Chief Operating Officer Kevin Lamour also reportedly described it as “the project of one person,” while senior adviser Carlos Cordeiro resigned in protest.
Former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, now FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development, distanced himself from the proposal, saying he had no role in drafting it and supported the decision to withdraw it.
Election Campaign Faces Uncertainty
Infantino’s immediate priority is expected to be securing enough support to remain in office until the March 2027 FIFA Congress.
Under FIFA rules, an Extraordinary Congress can be called if at least 43 member associations submit a formal request.
Media reports suggest UEFA, CONCACAF, and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) are exploring options to increase pressure on FIFA’s leadership, although the organisations have not officially commented.
Mixed Support From Member Nations
Despite criticism from some confederations, Infantino continues to receive backing from several national football associations.
Countries including Qatar, Kuwait, Lebanon, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia have publicly expressed support for the FIFA president.
Morocco, which will co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup, has also reaffirmed its backing.
Many smaller football associations continue to support Infantino, benefiting from FIFA’s financial development programmes.
African and Oceanian Support Still Unclear
While several African football leaders have voiced support for Infantino, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has yet to announce an official position.
Meanwhile, the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) is expected to discuss its approach during an executive committee meeting next week.
Prince Ali Criticises FIFA
Jordan Football Association President Prince Ali bin Hussein, who previously ran for FIFA president, criticised FIFA over the current controversy.
He accused the organisation of attempting to pressure football associations into supporting Infantino in exchange for assistance.
Prince Ali stated that his federation had not supported Infantino previously and would not do so now.
Leadership Battle Ahead
Although Gianni Infantino faces growing criticism from several football bodies, he still enjoys support from many FIFA member associations worldwide. With no major challenger yet emerging for the March 2027 presidential election, the coming months are expected to play a crucial role in determining the future leadership of world football.