The global football system is experiencing a political and administrative crisis, with major powers leading efforts to oust FIFA President Gianni Infantino. The crisis stems from a leaked secret plan to privatize part of the World Cup's commercial rights, known as 'FIFA Forward Enterprise'. Mr. Infantino sought to sell 20% of FIFA's commercial rights for $4.1 billion without informing the FIFA Council. J.P. Morgan was tasked with finding investors for the plan, with the largest share intended for a fund partly managed by Joshua Kushner. Joshua Kushner is the brother of Jared Kushner, Donald Trump's son-in-law.
Confederations Demand Resignation
UEFA, the Asian Football Confederation, and CONCACAF jointly sent an open letter demanding the resignation of FIFA President Gianni Infantino. The confederations also called for an independent investigation into the reported privatization plan. The Telegraph newspaper revealed intensive contacts between UEFA, the European Club Association, and the Asian and CONCACAF confederations. These discussions aim to develop a new organizational vision for FIFA should Mr. Infantino be removed from his position.
A surprise meeting recently took place in Salzburg between CAF President and FIFA Vice-President Patrice Motsepe and UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin. Mr. Motsepe stated, "ضرورة التغيير عبر صندوق الاقتراع" (the necessity of change through the ballot box), indicating a preference for electoral processes to effect leadership changes within the organization.
Proposed Restructuring and Power Shifts
Proposals under consideration include reducing the powers of the future FIFA president. Such changes would also subject the position to a strict rotation policy, according to sources familiar with the discussions. Additionally, a strong central administrative body operating on a civil service system is being proposed to ensure stability and continuity regardless of presidential changes. Opponents of Mr. Infantino reportedly believe he will not remain in his role until the elections scheduled for March. They further suggest that his tenure might not extend even until the candidacy deadline on November 18, indicating a perceived imminent change in leadership.
Club Influence and Potential Boycotts
The European Club Association, led by Nasser Al-Khelaifi, is reportedly using the current crisis to enhance the influence of major clubs. Clubs earned approximately £263 million from the last World Cup, and the association seeks to increase its earnings while becoming a global entity. Mr. Al-Khelaifi's name is being floated as a potential candidate for the FIFA presidency. Amidst the ongoing tensions, UEFA and national federations might boycott FIFA tournaments, starting with the U-20 Women's World Cup in Poland. France and Poland have confirmed that preparations are continuing for the U-20 Women's World Cup, while other teams like England are considering their options regarding participation.
Divergent Support and Future Uncertainty
Despite calls for his resignation, FIFA President Gianni Infantino has drew support from several Arab countries, including Qatar, Morocco, Egypt, Mauritania, Lebanon, and Sudan. The Qatar Football Association formally protested the Asian Football Confederation's decision to sign the letter demanding Mr. Infantino's ouster. Meanwhile, the Saudi Football Federation has yet to announce its official position on the ongoing leadership crisis within FIFA.