Trump Backs Infantino as 3 Soccer Confederations Threaten Breakaway Over $4.2 Billion Rights Plan
Updated
Updated · The New Republic · Aug 11
Trump Backs Infantino as 3 Soccer Confederations Threaten Breakaway Over $4.2 Billion Rights Plan
3 articles · Updated · The New Republic · Aug 11
Summary
Trump said on Truth Social that replacing FIFA president Gianni Infantino would be a “terrible mistake,” praising him for delivering the “most successful World Cup” and warning FIFA would never be as profitable again.
The intervention comes as UEFA, the AFC and CONCACAF accuse Infantino of deception over a leaked plan to sell a 20% stake in World Cup commercial rights for $4.2 billion.
UEFA is boycotting FIFA competitions until Infantino leaves office, and the three confederations said they could run their own tournaments if he stays.
Trump and Infantino have grown closer since Trump returned to the White House; Infantino awarded him a FIFA Peace Prize last December, providing context for the public show of support.