Trump warns FIFA against removing Infantino amid major deal controversy

US President Donald Trump has warned the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) against making a "terrible mistake" by removing its president, Gianni Infantino. In a message posted on social media, Trump wrote: "FIFA would be making a terrible mistake if it even considered, for any reason, replacing President Gianni Infantino," praising Infantino's leadership of the most successful World Cup edition.

Infantino is facing mounting pressure to step down over his proposal to sell commercial rights for the World Cup to private investors. FIFA has suggested establishing a $20 billion subsidiary called FIFA Forward Enterprise to manage the tournament and other activities, with up to a 20% stake offered for sale.

Investment ties and Trump camp connections

FIFA has indicated that the Thrive Eternal fund, managed by Thrive Capital—founded by Joshua Kushner—would lead the group of potential investors. Joshua is the brother of Jared Kushner, Trump's son-in-law, who has denied any knowledge of the project. The deal aims to raise $4.2 billion through the sale of the 20% stake, with Infantino giving member associations until September 19 to approve the plan, offering each federation $40 million as an incentive.

Continental federations' letter and boycott warnings

Meanwhile, UEFA, the Asian Football Confederation, and CONCACAF issued an open letter stressing the need to respect football's unity and criticizing attempts at individual control of leadership. The letter stated: "Leadership in football is not personal property and is not about clinging to power."

Reports indicate the three federations are considering organizing joint competitions for players amid the crisis with FIFA. They have also threatened to boycott FIFA tournaments, further escalating tensions over the future governance of world football.