What to know about the backlash against FIFA President Gianni Infantino

European soccer leaders are facing criticism against FIFA President Gianni Infantino as they convene in Monaco for the Champions League draw. The pushback stems from Infantino's failed World Cup sell-off plan, which has caused a significant rift within the sport. Many UEFA member federations have distanced themselves from the FIFA leader, with some demanding his resignation. Infantino, who is up for re-election in March 2027, has remained defiant and has not indicated any intention to step down.

UEFA has intensified its efforts against Infantino by preparing a potential criminal complaint in Switzerland, the location of FIFA's headquarters, for alleged mismanagement. The European soccer confederation has also filed requests in U.S. courts seeking evidence regarding Infantino's secretive plan to grant private investors, led by Joshua Kushner, a share of the profits from future World Cups and other FIFA tournaments for a substantial sum of $4.2 billion. However, FIFA abandoned the proposal just days after its announcement due to widespread opposition.

UEFA's legal actions against Infantino heighten the pressure on the FIFA president and could potentially expose other FIFA staffers to legal risks. The contentious plan, which was once attributed to Infantino, is now seen as a means for him and a select group to maintain a permanent stake in FIFA's most valuable assets at the expense of the organization, its members, and other stakeholders within the football community.