Jordanian FA president accuses FIFA of 'blackmail'

The president of Jordan's football association, Prince Ali Bin Al Hussein, has accused FIFA of blackmailing his country in exchange for support for Gianni Infantino to remain FIFA president. Infantino faces pressure due to his proposed plan to involve private investors in organizing FIFA tournaments, including the men’s and women’s World Cups. Jordan's support is crucial for Infantino's survival.

Prince Ali wrote on X that Jordan would not endorse Infantino after FIFA allegedly promised to help with recovering money owed to the Jordanian Football Association (JFA). Prince Ali, who previously ran against Sepp Blatter and Infantino for the FIFA presidency, criticized the challenges Jordanian fans face in traveling to the United States for the upcoming World Cup and the high ticket prices. He also mentioned the substantial tax burdens Jordan's association faces due to its US-based location during the finals.

Jordan is still waiting for prize money from the Arab Cup, organized by FIFA, while FIFA boasts about its billions in reserves. Prince Ali believes the issue lies with leadership and claims FIFA has not provided assistance on these matters, until he was told during the World Cup that supporting Infantino would benefit Jordan's football association. Jordan prides itself on ethical values and will not endorse Infantino, deeming the situation a form of blackmail. FIFA did not respond to Prince Ali's allegations.

Asia is seen as the decisive continent in the upcoming presidential contest, with Europe, North American, Central American, and Caribbean nations expected to oppose Infantino, while Africa, South America, and Oceania are likely to back him.