Carney curses Infantino as FIFA backs its president

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has decided to retain his position despite a recent crisis meeting held in response to his controversial plan to open the World Cup to private investment. FIFA's leadership acknowledged that errors were made following the proposal's leak to the media and confirmed their unwavering support for Infantino, as the only official elected by the 211 FIFA Member Associations.

The football body stressed its commitment to maintaining its integrity, good governance, and due process, vowing to take all necessary measures to protect its reputation.

The plan, which involved selling a 20% stake in a new commercial rights entity to private investors, raised approximately $4.2 billion. However, it faced significant backlash due to concerns over the involvement of a company with family ties to US President Donald Trump, a close ally of Infantino. European soccer's governing body UEFA threatened to boycott the World Cup, and other organizations, including CONCACAF and the Asian Football Confederation, expressed their loss of confidence in Infantino's leadership.

Additionally, European Leagues criticized FIFA's unilateral decision-making process, which they deemed disruptive to clubs, players, and fans.

Infantino faces a re-election bid in March at FIFA's next Congress, set to take place in Morocco, the co-hosts of the 2030 World Cup. Despite recent calls for his resignation, Infantino's position remains secure for now.