FIFA stated on Saturday that it opposes what it described as a coordinated campaign to weaken President Gianni Infantino. The organization insisted that any challenge to his position must follow its rules and democratic processes.
The announcement followed growing conflict over a rejected plan to raise roughly 4.2 billion dollars through the sale of commercial rights to the World Cup and other events. The proposal drew sharp criticism from UEFA, several national federations and some FIFA executives, resulting in calls for resignation and an emergency gathering in Morocco where leaders expressed continued backing for the president.
FIFA did not name the individuals or reports involved. The statement responded to media accounts of payments made by UEFA to a former staff member during Infantino’s earlier role there, claims he and the organization have rejected.
The body warned that those lacking support from member associations should not use allegations or false information to bypass established procedures. It described recent coverage as containing unfounded claims and said it would respond firmly to inaccurate reporting.
FIFA also stated it would reject any presidential election process that violates its statutes or governance rules. It noted that the president was elected by member associations and retains their mandate.
After the Morocco meeting, FIFA apologized to its 211 members for errors in handling the rights proposal and confirmed leadership support for Infantino. The dispute has affected his campaign for another term at the March congress. UEFA has withdrawn confidence in him, and Norway’s federation president urged his resignation, though several confederations including CAF and CONMEBOL have voiced backing. Mexico’s federation also expressed support.
