Trump Defends Infantino Amid FIFA Crisis
Posted on 08/12/26 at 15:42
U.S. President Donald Trump publicly defends Gianni Infantino during one of the most delicate moments the FIFA president has faced since taking office.
“FIFA would make a terrible mistake if, for any reason, it even considered replacing President Gianni Infantino,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.
Trump Delivers Strong Backing for Gianni Infantino
The president described Infantino as “fantastic” and linked his leadership to the success of the 2026 World Cup, held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Trump even claimed that without Infantino at the helm, it would be difficult for another World Cup to reach the same level of success and profitability.
The statement represents significant political backing for the FIFA president at a time when he is facing questions within international soccer.
Why Is Gianni Infantino Under Pressure?
The controversy intensified over the FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) project, which contemplated selling a 20% stake in the World Cup’s commercial rights to private investors for approximately $4.2 billion.
UEFA, the Asian Football Confederation, and Concacaf questioned the process and called for an independent review.
The organizations argued that a decision of such magnitude should not be considered without greater transparency and consultation with member federations.
Infantino Had to Backtrack
Internal pressure led Gianni Infantino to withdraw the proposal and apologize after the project became public.
However, the controversy continues and comes at an especially sensitive moment for his future.
FIFA Elections Are Approaching
The next FIFA Congress is scheduled for March 2027, and Infantino’s future at the helm of the organization will be one of the major issues on the agenda.
Despite the criticism, he retains significant support within international soccer, particularly in South America and Africa.
He now also has Trump’s public support, as the two strengthened their relationship during preparations for the 2026 World Cup.
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