How Infantino became isolated
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This World Cup was considered the biggest success of Gianni Infantino’ career. But can it also be called a symbol of misfortune? If Folarin Balogun’ red card is taken as the beginning, then perhaps it can. Since then, Infantino’ future at FIFA has been shaken by a series of controversies. What has been unfolding over the past few weeks suggests that the departure bell may soon be ringing for one of the giants of world football. He is also fighting back, while well wishers from different quarters are taking his side. But the opposing camp still appears stronger. His fate now rests with time. But what happened that put the position of one of the most influential presidents in FIFA history at risk?
The controversy began with the cancellation of Folarin Balogun’ red card. The American forward was shown a red card in the last 32 of the World Cup, which meant he was suspended for the next round. However, his suspension was dramatically lifted at the request of US President Donald Trump before the last 16. There was widespread criticism over Balogun taking the field against Belgium. Following direct intervention by the White House on the issue, 72 members of the European Parliament called for a formal investigation.
Even after managing that setback, Infantino’ troubles had only just begun. After the World Cup, The Times and The Guardian brought a new storm. They reported that Infantino was planning to establish a commercial entity called ‘FIFA Forward Enterprise’. Through this entity, the commercial rights of the World Cup would be sold to private investors.
The entire football world erupted after the information was leaked. Infantino’ FIFA throne appeared to be on the verge of collapse amid accusations that he was destroying football by selling the World Cup.
The reason was that the FIFA president had made the plan secretly. Even some of his close associates at FIFA reportedly did not know about the plan to sell the World Cup. The FIFA secretary general, chief operating officer and others were reportedly not involved in it. All of this was enough to shake his position. UEFA, which had placed him in the presidency 10 years ago, became vocal in demanding Infantino’ resignation. Europe’ top football governing body made it clear that it no longer had confidence in the current leadership of world football’ governing body. At the same time, UEFA took the tough decision to consider bringing a ‘motion of no confidence’ against Infantino.
CONCACAF and the Asian Football Council also joined UEFA. All 55 European countries have stood against him, along with some countries from Asia and CONCACAF. It becomes difficult to run football if Europe turns against you. If they refuse to play, what remains of the World Cup? Seeing the looming danger, Infantino was eventually forced to withdraw the controversial proposal to sell the commercial rights.
Although the major danger has been dealt with for now, a list of Infantino’ alleged wrongdoings is emerging almost every day. Jordan Football Association President Prince Ali Bin Al Hussein accused him of ‘blackmail’. He claimed that FIFA had offered cooperation to Jordan in exchange for supporting Infantino. Hussein also alleged that Jordan did not receive the prize money for reaching the final of the Arab Cup held in Qatar. During this difficult time, however, Infantino has received support from some countries in Africa and the Arab world. Qatar, which hosted the 2022 World Cup, has particularly expressed strong support for him. The Qatar Football Association praised Infantino’ decision after the controversial ‘FIFA Forward Enterprise’ proposal was withdrawn. It applauded the importance of unity among national associations. At the same time, the country that hosted the 2022 World Cup said there were some positive aspects to the proposal for each FIFA member country to receive a one time payment of $2 billion.
Infantino has also received support from Kuwait, Sri Lanka, Lebanon and Egypt. The Daily Mail reported that the public support from these countries, including Qatar, has given him additional strength against efforts to remove him from power.
Currently, 96 of FIFA’ 211 member federations are under UEFA and CONCACAF. This number is enough to begin the process of a no confidence vote, but not enough to remove Infantino. This is because most of the member federations in Africa still support him. South American countries are also likely to support him. As a result, the position of Asian member countries could be the most important in any potential vote.
Amid all these controversies and allegations, Infantino has apologized. This has, for now, saved his position as FIFA president. After receiving the support of senior officials at a meeting held in Morocco, he has apparently managed to remain FIFA president.
Facing intense criticism, Infantino called an emergency meeting of the management board members at FIFA’ Africa office in Rabat, Morocco. Four hours after the meeting ended, football’ highest governing body issued a statement expressing its support for him.
It appears that Infantino has survived. But has he really?
The election will be held on March 18, 2027. The vote will take place on that day. Until then, he will have to fight off the various challenges thrown at him by his opponents. Europe appears to have firmly embarked on a mission to remove Infantino from power.
