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Infantino Calls FIFA Crisis Meeting Amid Growing Criticism
๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Germany /Culture & Society

Infantino Calls FIFA Crisis Meeting Amid Growing Criticism

From Der Spiegel · () German

Translated from German, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Ongoing story
  • FIFA President Gianni Infantino has reportedly called an emergency meeting in Morocco amid growing criticism.
  • The meeting is intended to address recent controversies, including plans to sell World Cup rights to investors.
  • Several close associates have distanced themselves from Infantino, raising questions about his leadership.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has reportedly summoned a crisis meeting of the world football governing body in Morocco this Wednesday. Reports from The Times and Sky Sports indicate that the embattled president has called key staff to the capital, Rabat, though the exact agenda remains unclear.

Infantino has faced a storm of criticism following revelations of plans to sell World Cup broadcasting rights to investors. Although he subsequently abandoned the idea, significant opposition has emerged, particularly within Europe. This latest controversy has fueled speculation that Infantino's presidency could be nearing its end.

The mounting pressure is evident as even close confidants have voiced criticism. FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafstrรถm described the situation as a "sad and reprehensible series of events" causing "turmoil." Former coach Arsรจne Wenger, FIFA's director of global football development, has publicly distanced himself from Infantino. Adding to the turmoil, Infantino's close associate and advisor Carlos Cordeiro resigned last week in protest.

a sad and reprehensible series of events

โ€” Mattias GrafstrรถmFIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafstrรถm's description of the current situation.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Der Spiegel in German. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.