Trump backs FIFA President Infantino under pressure: Removing him would be a 'terrible mistake'

US President Donald Trump has given his open support to FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who is under pressure to resign. Trump stated that if FIFA were to consider replacing Infantino, it would be a "terrible mistake."

Trump's statement came after UEFA, CONCACAF, and the AFC signed a letter signaling that their confidence in the FIFA administration and Infantino had been shaken. The move by the three continental confederations has made the recent growing debates surrounding the FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) plan even more visible.

In a post on his social media account, Trump described Infantino as a "great guy." The US President argued that Infantino has managed "the most successful World Cup by a factor of four among all those held to date," adding, "If he leaves, the World Cup will never be as successful or profitable again."

FFE PLAN AT THE CENTER OF THE DEBATE

The controversial FFE proposal envisioned the establishment of a new company to manage the commercial rights and ticket sales rights of FIFA organizations, including the World Cups. According to the plan, a 21 percent stake in this company would be sold to a private investment firm.

According to information reflected in sources, Infantino offered 40 million dollars each to the 211 member national federations of FIFA to gain support for the plan. It was stated that the company of Joshua Kushner, the brother of Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner, stood out in the investment plan in question. Trump, however, had said on July 31 that he had not discussed this plan with Infantino.

While UEFA stated that it could take legal action due to the failed FFE plans, it also threatened to boycott FIFA organizations. UEFA, representing Europe, was joined by CONCACAF, representing North America, Central America, and the Caribbean, and the AFC, representing Asia.

The letter from the three confederations stated, "When trust is shaken through deception, when an individual sees themselves above the community that entrusted them with authority, they have abandoned the responsibility that falls upon them." Although Infantino's name is not explicitly mentioned in the letter, the call is considered to be directed at the FIFA President.

FIFA, for its part, had previously characterized the events as a "coordinated and ongoing attempt" to "weaken" the world football governing body and Infantino.

According to BBC Sport, the option of organizing tournaments independent of FIFA if Infantino remains in office was discussed at a preliminary level among the three confederations. However, other sources state that a comprehensive negotiation process on this matter has not yet begun.

The close relationship between Infantino and Trump also draws attention in the background of the debates. Infantino presented the FIFA Peace Prize, which was awarded for the first time in December 2025, to Trump. Trump's latest statement marks the first open support he has given to Infantino since the FFE plan emerged on July 28.

News Source: 12punto