Uefa gives Infantino two-week deadline to release key documents

Uefa has given Fifa a two-week deadline to release key documents and answer questions regarding governance and decision-making by November 2. At the recent Fifa Council, President Gianni Infantino apologized for his World Cup sell-off plan but did not provide a full explanation of its development. Uefa's general secretary, Theodore Theodoridis, highlighted that several fundamental questions remain unanswered and that requested information and documentation has not been provided.

The letter to Fifa included 42 questions covering various topics, including the Fifa Forward Enterprise (FFE) private investment, the Fifa Peace Prize, and the suspended ban against USA striker Folarin Balogun at the World Cup. Uefa emphasized that any refusal to disclose information or documents must be individually justified with a clear explanation of the specific grounds relied upon.

Uefa did not outline steps for future action should Fifa fail to meet the deadline, but hopes it adds pressure on Infantino ahead of the November 18 date for candidates to confirm their presidential election bids. Football Association chair Debbie Hewitt criticized Infantino, stating that if he does not answer the questions, he is not fit to be Fifa president.

Uefa questioned various aspects of FFE and funding to associations, such as the idea's origin, authorization, and future safeguards against similar shortcomings. They also asked about Infantino's potential involvement in an ongoing U.S. investigation into Fifa's administration and his possible positions during or after his tenure as Fifa president.

The letter also inquired about the selection of Thrive Capital, the lead investor in FFE, without competitive tendering or prior consultation of the Fifa Council. Uefa sought clarification on why the company was chosen, its link to the recipient of the Fifa Peace Prize, and the reasons for awarding the Peace Prize to US President Donald Trump. The organization also demanded answers concerning the Peace Prize's establishment, purpose, and decision-making process.