Saudi Arabia backs Infantino amid fallout from failed FIFA investment plan

Uefa is likely to drop its threat to boycott Fifa tournaments following assurances from the world football body over President Gianni Infantino's failed plan to sell off stakes in the World Cup, a source told AFP. Infantino, 56, has faced increasing pressure to step down as president due to the abandoned proposal, which Uefa deemed a "shady, opaque backroom deal".

Despite Infantino withdrawing the plan, Uefa had maintained their boycott threat until the second condition was met. With Uefa's national associations convening in Monaco for the draws of the Champions League and other club competitions, the likelihood of withdrawing the boycott threat appears high. The Under-20 Women's World Cup, held in Poland from September 5 to 27, played a crucial role in forcing Infantino's U-turn, as the tournament could undermine Uefa's efforts to oust him.

The recent withdrawal of Italy from supporting Infantino further weakened his position, with other member associations, including CONCACAF's Victor Montagliani, seen as potential challengers.