FIFA President Gianni Infantino sought support from U.S. President Donald Trump amid growing criticism after abandoning a plan to sell a stake in the organization’s new commercial structure. This was reported on Monday by the New York Post, citing sources familiar with the situation.
According to the Post, Infantino repeatedly tried to contact Trump by phone after the proposal was rejected on Friday. The FIFA leader felt “isolated” due to a wave of negative media coverage. FIFA did not provide immediate comments.
Criticism intensified over Infantino’s failed plan to separate the commercial assets of the world football governing body into a new structure supported by private investors. FIFA’s plan involved raising up to $4.2 billion by selling approximately a 20% stake in a new company that would control the organization’s commercial assets, including those related to the World Cup. This idea was abandoned on Friday following strong opposition from stakeholders.
Consequences for Infantino and ties with Trump
After abandoning this idea, attention is now focused on the possible consequences for Infantino, whose bid for another term as FIFA president from 2027 to 2031 is facing increased scrutiny following the failed initiative.
Trump and Infantino have developed a close relationship, frequently appearing together at major football events, including this year’s World Cup co-hosted by the USA, Mexico, and Canada.
History of relations and deal details
This connection was highlighted in December 2025 when Infantino presented Trump with the first FIFA Peace Award, making him the inaugural recipient of this honor. The relationship drew even more attention due to FIFA’s plan to sell a stake in the new commercial structure, which was to be supported by Thrive Capital, founded by Joshua Kushner, the brother of Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner.
However, U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Global Public Affairs Dylan Johnson stated in a post on the platform X that there are “no plans” for Rubio to speak with Infantino and that “there will be no call this morning.”
Source: Al Jazeera
