What to know about the backlash against FIFA President Gianni Infantino

Gianni Infantino, the FIFA president, has been the subject of intense criticism and calls for his resignation following a failed plan to sell off World Cup profits. UEFA, the European soccer confederation, spearheaded the backlash against Infantino over the controversial plan, which involved offering private investors a stake in future World Cup revenues for $4.2 billion.

Many of UEFA's member federations have withdrawn their support for Infantino, and some have even called for his resignation. Infantino, who is up for re-election in March 2027, has not indicated any intention to step down. The growing pushback against Infantino includes UEFA's threat of a criminal complaint against him in Switzerland for alleged mismanagement.

The European soccer confederation also filed requests in U.S. courts seeking evidence about Infantino's secretive plan. The ongoing crisis puts pressure on Infantino and raises questions about the future of FIFA leadership.