U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly supported Gianni Infantino, the president of FIFA, who is facing pressure to resign amid plans to privatize part of the World Cup-related business.
On August 10, Trump stated on Truth Social, "If FIFA considers replacing President Infantino for any reason, it would be a terrible mistake. He is fantastic."
Trump praised Infantino for successfully leading the 2026 North American World Cup, asserting, "If he leaves, FIFA will never be as successful or profitable as it is now."
Trump's endorsement comes as opposition within the soccer community against Infantino is growing.
Infantino recently proposed creating a subsidiary to manage commercial and operational aspects of major tournaments, including the World Cup, and selling a portion of its shares to private investors. FIFA has valued the subsidiary at approximately $20 billion and planned to raise up to $4.2 billion by selling about 20% of its shares.
However, UEFA, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), and CONCACAF have strongly opposed the plan, citing concerns over the decision-making process and the transfer of FIFA's core business to private capital. Infantino ultimately withdrew the sale plan at the end of last month, but calls for his resignation have emerged from parts of the soccer community.
Particularly controversial is the involvement of investors, as Joshua Kushner, brother of Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner, was set to lead the investor group.
Trump and Infantino have maintained a publicly close relationship, with Infantino awarding Trump the inaugural 'FIFA Peace Award' during the draw for the 2026 North American World Cup last December.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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