FIFA apologises to members as Infantino holds crisis meeting amid stake sale fallout

FIFA's leadership has apologized to its members for the mishandling of a withdrawn proposal to sell a 20% stake in a commercial rights entity. The plan, which aimed to raise approximately $4.2 billion, sparked widespread criticism and was ultimately abandoned on August 4. FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who was elected in 2016, faced significant backlash, including from within FIFA, for his handling of the situation.

Following a crisis meeting in Rabat, Morocco, FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom and the FIFA management board reaffirmed their full support for Infantino. Infantino, whose term as president is set to end in March 2031, remains the only official elected by FIFA's 211 member associations. Despite the withdrawal of the proposal, FIFA has vowed not to tolerate any attacks on its integrity, good governance, and due process.

Critics from UEFA, CONCACAF, and the Asian Football Confederation have expressed disappointment, with some calling for Infantino's resignation. African football administrators have largely supported Infantino, while the European Leagues criticized FIFA for making unilateral decisions. The summit will decide the fate of Infantino's leadership and the future of FIFA.