Infantino apologises to Fifa Council – but told he is still not fit to lead

Fifa President Gianni Infantino has issued an apology to the Fifa Council for his plans related to the World Cup sell-off, but he was informed he is not suitable to lead unless he discloses all documents and addresses critical questions. The Fifa Council convened in Zurich for the first time since Infantino’s secret Fifa Forward Enterprise (FFE) proposal surfaced.

FFE aimed to transfer a portion of football’s world governing body's commercial rights to a private investment firm. During the three-and-a-half-hour meeting, Infantino faced inquiries on topics such as the suspended red-card ban for US striker Folarin Balogun, the Fifa Peace Prize, and funding for national associations. Later, Fifa released a video statement from Infantino, who expressed regret for communication and consultation mistakes linked to FFE, but clarified that it was a proposal, not a finalized plan, intended to enhance investments in member associations.

Infantino promised to respond to questions in writing "in due course" after a "constructive discussion" with various opinions. Uefa Chair Debbie Hewitt, a Fifa vice-president, criticized Infantino's response, stating that many questions remained unanswered despite a thorough meeting. Hewitt emphasized the necessity of receiving the FFE documents to determine whether Infantino is the right candidate or if any associated behavior needs to change.

Uefa, a fierce critic of Infantino, has filed a claim in three US courts for all FFE documents to be released. Infantino will re-contend for the Fifa presidency in March, with no viable challenger yet. Former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has been suggested as a potential rival, but it is uncertain if he would step down from his current role.