FIFA calls UEFA legal push a “smear campaign” over failed World Cup investment plan

FIFA has asked US judges to block or delay UEFA’s effort to obtain documents tied to its failed plan to sell stakes in the World Cup to investors, calling the move a “smear campaign” and a “fishing expedition.”

The plan, unveiled in July, provoked a backlash across football. UEFA threatened to boycott the World Cup unless FIFA abandoned it, and FIFA soon dropped the proposal. UEFA has since begun preparing possible legal action against FIFA President Gianni Infantino, accusing him of alleged “criminal mismanagement.”

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smear campaign

Last week, UEFA filed requests in three US states seeking testimony and documents from FIFA and partners involved in the plan. The requests include material from Thrive Capital, the firm of prospective lead investor Joshua Kushner. UEFA says it wants access to the documents before filing a legal complaint in Switzerland, where it has been told the case could meet the requirements for a hearing.

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fishing expedition

FIFA’s court filings argue that UEFA has no right to demand its internal records because no criminal proceedings currently exist in Switzerland or elsewhere. FIFA also says UEFA would lack legal standing even if proceedings existed because it suffered no financial loss. The filings accuse UEFA of bypassing Swiss courts by applying directly to US courts.

The requested material includes correspondence involving Infantino, other FIFA personnel and advisers. FIFA says disclosure “would directly threaten FIFA’s interests and reveal sensitive and proprietary information.” UEFA has openly sought to remove Infantino, who had expected to run unopposed for a fourth and final term next March after what the article describes as a highly successful World Cup. UEFA called the investment proposal a “shady, opaque backroom deal.” The Asian Football Confederation and CONCACAF have also supported UEFA’s opposition.

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shady, opaque backroom deal