Premier League chief executive Richard Masters has sharply criticized FIFA president Gianni Infantino, accusing him of pressing the "self-destruct button" with his failed initiatives to sell stakes in World Cup tournaments. This controversy has escalated as Infantino grapples with significant backlash from various football organizations, including Uefa, which has emerged as his main adversary, and the Football Association, which has withdrawn its support for him.

Masters articulated his concerns in an interview with BBC Sport, stating:

This is a self-inflicted wound. The organisation has pressed the self-destruct button, and the consequences of that flow now into the solutions that need to be found.

• He emphasized that selling off a stake in the World Cup is inappropriate for a not-for-profit organization, asserting that FIFA should hold this competition in trust for the future of football.

In light of the ongoing turmoil, Masters suggested that a potential rival for Infantino's re-election next year should prioritize FIFA reform on their agenda. He remarked on the necessity of restructuring the president's role within the organization.

Infantino's troubles intensified with the resignation of Kevin Lamour, FIFA's chief operating officer, who publicly condemned Infantino's plans. Lamour described feeling "deceived" by the proposals and criticized the organizational culture of intimidation. He expressed relief at having spoken out against the plans, stating he could "sleep well tonight."

Lise Klaveness, head of the Football Association of Norway, voiced her concerns regarding Lamour's departure, suggesting it was a move to silence dissent within FIFA. She labeled the situation as "management by fear," calling for FIFA leadership to resist orders contrary to the interests of football.