English FA calls for Infantino to release FIFA World Cup sell-off documents

Football Association chair Debbie Hewitt has urged FIFA president Gianni Infantino to disclose all documents concerning FIFA's controversial plan to sell a stake in the commercial rights of the World Cup. Hewitt, also a FIFA vice-president, made the request in a letter to Infantino and FIFA secretary general Mattias Grafstrom, demanding a written explanation for FIFA's decision to suspend US forward Folarin Balogun's one-match ban during the World Cup.

Hewitt's letter highlights concerns over FIFA's governance and a perceived breakdown in culture within the organization. FIFA president Infantino has faced increasing criticism over the abandoned FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) proposal, which would have created a new company to manage commercial and ticketing rights, including for the World Cup.

The plan was ultimately canceled due to opposition from national football associations. Hewitt has called for an independent review of the FFE proposal's development, the individuals involved, and the tendering process for the private investment opportunity. The controversy has also sparked a public dispute between FIFA and UEFA, with UEFA planning legal action in three US courts over the FFE proposal and demanding access to related documents.

FIFA has dismissed the criticism, accusing UEFA of launching a smear campaign against Infantino and FIFA's leadership. Infantino is seeking a fourth term as FIFA president in March, with potential challengers required to submit alternative candidates by November 18. The Football Association had previously raised concerns regarding Balogun's suspension during the World Cup.

The US forward was shown a red card for a foul during his country's 2-0 win over Bosnia-Herzegovina, which automatically triggered a one-match suspension. FIFA suspended the ban for one year, allowing Balogun to participate in the match against Belgium. The FA requested documents related to the decision and expressed worries about potential political interference.

US President Donald Trump subsequently contacted Infantino, requesting a review of the Balogun ban. This incident added to the FA's concerns about FIFA's decision-making and governance. The Balogun controversy followed the FFE proposal, further straining FIFA's relationships with several national associations. UEFA, Concacaf, and the Asian Football Confederation accused FIFA and Infantino of damaging trust in the organization.

Several national associations, including England, Wales, and Scotland, withdrew letters of support for Infantino's re-election. Despite these challenges, Infantino maintains strong backing from confederations in Africa, South America, and Oceania. After the FFE proposal was abandoned, Infantino met with FIFA's management board in Rabat, Morocco, but the FIFA Council has yet to receive a comprehensive explanation of the proposal.

This is expected to occur at the next council meeting on October 15, when Hewitt and the other 35 members of FIFA's governing council will question Infantino.