Asia chief hits out at Qatar over pushback on letter attacking Infantino

Asian Football Confederation President Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al-Khalifa has strongly criticized Qatar's stance on a joint statement criticizing FIFA President Gianni Infantino. In a letter to the Qatar Football Association (QFA), Al-Khalifa denied that he had exceeded his authority in joining UEFA and CONCACAF in the criticism.

He emphasized his responsibility to protect the AFC and Asian football's interests when matters are of fundamental importance. Al-Khalifa pointed out that the AFC had previously expressed support for Qatar hosting the 2022 World Cup despite global pressure. He questioned the timing and selectiveness of the QFA's criticism, noting its historical acceptance of a similar approach in other situations.

Sheikh Salman also accused the QFA of prioritizing procedural technicalities over the defense of Asian and world football's interests.