FA chair calls for release of files on Infantino's controversial World Cup sell-off plan

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has faced mounting pressure to release documents related to the World Cup commercial rights stake sale plan. Football Association chair Debbie Hewitt, a FIFA vice-president, has called for the release of these documents before a crucial meeting scheduled for 15 October. Hewitt also demanded an explanation for the suspension of United States forward Folarin Balogun during the World Cup.

Balogun was shown a straight red card for a foul, which led to his automatic one-match suspension. However, FIFA suspended the ban for one year, sparking concerns about potential political interference. The Football Association has been critical of FIFA's decision-making and governance, particularly in light of the abandoned FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) proposal.

This proposal would have seen a 21% stake in a new company managing commercial and ticketing rights sold to private investors. The plan was ultimately scrapped due to opposition from national football associations. UEFA has also joined the criticism, preparing legal proceedings in three US courts over the FFE proposal. FIFA has denied these allegations, accusing UEFA of conducting a "smear campaign."

Infantino is seeking a fourth term as FIFA president in March, with potential challengers needing to find an alternative candidate by 18 November.