Trump rallies behind Infantino as FIFA power struggle boils over

U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly voiced his support for FIFA President Gianni Infantino, cautioning that removing him from office now would be a detrimental mistake for global football. In a recent post on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump highlighted Infantino's stewardship of the most triumphant World Cup in the competition's annals and warned that the sport could suffer a loss in momentum and profitability without Infantino guiding its operations.

This is the first explicit public endorsement Trump has extended to Infantino since a high-profile commercial proposal unraveled two weeks ago. Known internally as FIFA Forward Enterprise, the aborted proposal would have granted a private investment firm substantial control over FIFA's commercial and ticketing operations, including those for World Cup tournaments.

The deal's premature approval triggered widespread backlash, prompting UEFA, CONCACAF, and the Asian Football Confederation to jointly accuse Infantino of proceeding without sufficient consultation, labeling it a severe violation of trust towards the federations he was elected to represent. This escalating dispute has ignited speculation that certain confederations might consider severing ties with FIFA's jurisdiction if Infantino continues to hold his position.

However, any formal discussions regarding such a move are still at an early stage. Trump's endorsement injects a political element into a previously tense internal conflict within football's governing body. The two individuals have cultivated a notable rapport over the past year, exemplified by Infantino presenting Trump with FIFA's inaugural Peace Prize last year.

Infantino is anticipated to campaign for a fourth term as FIFA President during the scheduled elections in March 2027.