FIFA Apologizes for Sell-Off Blunder, Still Backs Infantino Amid Outcry š§
FIFA Apologizes for Sell-Off Blunder, Still Backs Infantino Amid Outcry š§
FIFA admits "mistakes" in handling the controversial World Cup sell-off plan but maintains full support for President Gianni Infantino. Critics demand reform, questioning the future of football's governance.
FIFA has issued an apology for its mishandling of the controversial World Cup sell-off plan, known as the FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), which proposed selling stakes in future World Cup profits. Despite this admission of error and mounting criticism, the governing body has firmly reaffirmed its "full support" for President Gianni Infantino. The announcement follows a crisis meeting held in Rabat, Morocco, where FIFA's leadership aimed to present a united front amidst calls for governance reform and even demands for Infantino's resignation.
The now-withdrawn FFE proposal faced fierce opposition from stakeholders across the global football community. In an official statement, FIFA acknowledged that "mistakes made were acknowledged" regarding the FFE project and admitted that the "process should have been handled differently." The organization also revealed that a letter was sent to its Council members and national associations, apologizing for the handling of the matter and committing to "ensure they do not happen again."
Secretary General Mattias Grafstrƶm and other members of FIFA's management board who attended the Rabat meeting were cited as having "reaffirmed their full support" for Infantino's presidency, emphasizing that the FIFA Forward Enterprise proposal is "now off the table." FIFA stated, "There are always lessons to be learned, and FIFA will continue to improve its processes in light of this experience."
However, this show of unity comes against a backdrop of escalating criticism. Organizations like the European Leagues association have deemed the sell-off plan perilous and continue to call for significant reforms in FIFA's governance. Former FIFA vice president Prince Ali has accused FIFA of "blackmailing" members to support Infantino, while football legend Luis Figo has unequivocally stated that a "deceitful" Infantino "must go," urging his immediate resignation rather than waiting for next year's re-election bid. The controversy highlights ongoing tensions within world football regarding the organization's leadership and financial transparency.
