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Gianni Infantino: Uefa says Fifa's backing of its president 'changes nothing'

Uefa's Confidence Crisis: Infantino Faces Potential Boycott as Tensions Rise

BBC Sport•
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AI Summary

European teams remain poised to boycott major competitions, including the World Cup, as Uefa asserts that Fifa's backing of its president, Gianni Infantino, "changes nothing". The English FA has withdrawn its support for Infantino following controversial plans to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors.

Uefa stated that Infantino's conditions for maintaining his position have not been met, emphasizing:

  • The withdrawal of proposals to sell major competitions
  • Assurances against future attempts to alter the game’s integrity

Despite Infantino's aborted plans, Uefa's confidence in him has eroded, labeling the Fifa Forward Enterprise (FFE) proposal a "shabby, back room, opaque deal". Infantino had previously offered all associations $40 million if they supported private investment in tournaments, including the men's and women's World Cups.

During a recent meeting in Rabat, Morocco, Fifa acknowledged "mistakes" regarding the FFE, but Infantino's authority appears intact as he summoned Fifa management to discuss recent events. However, some members, like Kevin Lamour, criticized Infantino's approach, calling it a "project of one person".

Uefa is keen for answers regarding the FFE's development and holds Infantino accountable. With options to force a vote of no confidence or find a unity candidate for the March election, Uefa's strategy becomes critical. Yet, Infantino's continued support from certain federations complicates matters.

As the Fifa Women's U20s World Cup approaches on September 5, the pressure mounts on Uefa to act decisively. While some within Fifa downplay the European outcry, Infantino's grip on power is increasingly challenged, and the landscape of global football governance remains uncertain.

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