Qatar challenges AFC over open letter attacking FIFA president Infantino

The Qatar Football Association (QFA) has challenged the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) over the confederation's open letter criticizing FIFA President Gianni Infantino. In a letter to AFC President Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa, QFA President Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani stated that neither he nor the QFA were consulted before the AFC issued the statement.

The open letter, which seeks to collectively represent the interests of all AFC member associations, was published by UEFA, the AFC and CONCACAF in response to concerns over Infantino's leadership and his proposal to bring private investment into FIFA competitions. Al-Thani, an Executive Committee member and FIFA Council member, urged the AFC to clarify the consultation process and the basis on which it assumes the authority to speak for the 47 member associations.

The AFC has declined to comment on the matter. This dispute highlights the growing tensions within Asian soccer as the battle over Infantino's leadership intensifies.