Call for resignation for Infantino from prominent football figures: “Recent events have made it impossible to remain silent”

Well-known figures in the football world have called for the resignation of FIFA President Gianni Infantino. The statement, supported by former Manchester United and Arsenal defender Mikaël Silvestre, England national team defender Lucy Bronze, former England goalkeeper David James, and Emmanuel Petit, who was part of France’s 1998 World Cup-winning squad, criticized FIFA’s current management approach.

The statement argued that players and fans are not sufficiently considered in football’s decision-making processes. Stating that “we share the exact same concerns as millions of football fans around the world,” the text claimed that the FIFA administration has drifted away from the fundamental values of football.

''Like them, we are watching the game we love drift away from its core values under FIFA's current leadership. For too long, we have seen major decisions made without consulting players or seeking their input, and without any regard for the fans who keep the sport alive. Change is necessary. Power has blurred the current administration's ability to distinguish between its own interests and the good of football. Recent events have made it impossible to remain silent. Enough is enough.''

The statement emphasized that not only a change in management is needed, but also a more comprehensive structural transformation within FIFA. It was stated that players and fans should have a “real and direct say” in how football is governed, and that actors on the pitch and fans in the stands should have a stronger role in shaping the future of football.

CRITICISMS DIRECTED AT INFANTINO

The background of the reactions toward Infantino also includes initiatives said to have been conducted behind closed doors regarding the sale of a portion of World Cup shares. It was reported that after reactions from FIFA officials and national federations, Infantino apologized in a letter, but despite this, calls for his resignation continue in football circles.

Some decisions made during the 2026 World Cup process have also increased debates regarding FIFA’s reputation. The overturning of the suspension of US player Folarin Balogun, visa and logistical obstacles for some countries, and allegations that star players are being protected were cited among the criticisms.

FIFA’s plans to add a Super Bowl-style major concert show to the World Cup final and to extend the halftime duration beyond the 15-minute limit in IFAB rules have also sparked controversy. It was argued that these plans could negatively affect the nature of the game and player health.

Infantino’s proposal to hold the 2030 World Cup with 64 teams was criticized by UEFA and European clubs over issues of fixture congestion and player health.

The next FIFA Presidential Election is planned to be held at the 77th FIFA Congress, which will take place in Rabat, the capital of Morocco, on March 18, 2027. Gianni Infantino, who has been serving as FIFA president since 2016, had announced that he would run again in the upcoming elections.

News Source: 12punto