Trump backs FIFA chief Infantino amid confederation criticism

Donald Trump has publicly backed FIFA President Gianni Infantino, describing any move to replace him as a "terrible mistake." Trump lauded Infantino as "fantastic" and credited him with presiding over the most successful World Cup ever. "If he is gone, it will never be as successful or profitable again!" Trump stated on Truth Social.

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FIFA would be making a terrible mistake if, for any reason, they even considered replacing President Gianni Infantino.

Infantino, however, faces significant opposition. Three major confederations – Europe's UEFA, North and Central America's CONCACAF, and Asia's AFC – have accused him of breaking trust through deception. This criticism stems from a now-withdrawn plan to bring private investment into FIFA competitions, including the World Cup.

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Leadership in football is not a possession. It is not about holding -- or demanding -- power to be held.

These confederations issued a joint letter stating, "Leadership in football is not a possession. It is not about holding -- or demanding -- power to be held." They argued that Infantino abandoned his duty when trust was broken through deception and he placed himself above the collective.

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When trust is broken through deception, when an individual places himself above the collective that entrusted him with authority, that duty has been abandoned.

Despite this backlash, Infantino has received support from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the South American governing body CONMEBOL. Some individual member associations, including Mexico, Kuwait, and Qatar, have also declared support. Infantino is eligible for re-election in March 2027, with candidates needing to be declared by November 18.

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FIFA had looked certain to be unopposed for a fourth term after overseeing a successful World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada until his plans were revealed.