Fans launch petition calling for Infantino to quit as Fifa urged to ‘start from scratch’

Across the globe, fan groups have united in a petition demanding the resignation of Fifa president Gianni Infantino and a complete reorganization of the governing body. This call for change stems from the backlash over Infantino's decision to abandon plans for private investment in the organization, which governs major tournaments like the World Cups.

Three continental confederations accused Infantino of deception regarding the creation and presentation of this scheme. In response, Uefa, European football's governing body, maintains its boycott of Fifa events, expressing loss of confidence in Infantino's leadership. Infantino continues to retain support in regions like Africa and South America, but fan groups are now pushing for his resignation through a petition on the change.org website.

The fan organizations argue that Infantino's secretive plan to sell off the World Cup to private investors represented a grave betrayal of the sport. The fan groups view this proposal as the final blow following Fifa's involvement in the European Super League and ticket pricing for the men's World Cup. The petition calls for immediate action, emphasizing that Infantino has lost the right to lead football due to his repeated betrayals.

In addition to Infantino's resignation, the petition demands structural reforms within Fifa, including the formal involvement of fans and other key stakeholders in decision-making processes. According to Ronan Evain, executive director of Football Supporters Europe, the departure of Infantino is necessary but must be followed by significant reform for Fifa to regain credibility and ensure the future of the game.

The organization needs to start anew, with a fresh approach to governance. The reforms implemented in 2016 have been largely erased by Infantino, leading fans to consider alternative models for football governance.