Spanish league chief accuses FIFA boss of 'destroying the football industry'

Javier Tebas, the president of Spain's La Liga, has launched a strong attack on FIFA President Gianni Infantino, accusing him of "destroying the football industry." Tebas argues that Infantino's push to expand international competitions, particularly the World Cup, is detrimental to the sport.

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Gianni Infantino should resign as head of FIFA for 'destroying the football industry' by expanding international competitions.

Tebas specifically voiced his opposition to proposals that would increase the number of teams in the 2030 men's World Cup from 48 to 64. He believes that while the World Cup is the most important event, it should not be the sole focus of the football world. Tebas stated that the expansion makes "no sense" and that the "football industry isn't just the World Cup."

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Increasing the number of national teams makes no sense. The football industry isn't just the World Cup, which is the most important event. But not everything can revolve around the World Cup.

The La Liga chief also criticized FIFA's handling of recent tournament logistics, including the introduction of hydration breaks and an extended 27-minute half-time interval during the World Cup final. Tebas called these breaks a "lie," suggesting they were used for advertising rather than genuine player welfare, especially since some venues had air conditioning. He argued that FIFA arranges events for its own interests, not for the good of football.

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In my opinion, yes, I think his time is up.

Expressing his view on Infantino's leadership, Tebas stated, "In my opinion, yes, I think his time is up." However, he acknowledged that Infantino holds strong support within the system and federations, making his departure unlikely. Tebas lamented the lack of opposition and the silence of those who are aware of the damage being done to football, suggesting complicity. He believes that national competitions, which sustain the sport and create jobs, are being undermined for short, infrequent events involving a minority of players.

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They are destroying the football industry, which generates tens of thousands of jobs, for an event that lasts 40 days and involves a minority of players.