Trump denies talks with Infantino over FIFA investment deal

Former US President Donald Trump has denied holding any talks with FIFA President Gianni Infantino regarding the federation’s plan to offer a stake in a new company that would manage the World Cup and several other tournaments to external investors.

Speaking to reporters at Camp David on Friday, Trump said he had not spoken with Infantino about the proposal FIFA intends to present to investors.

Trump’s comments come days after FIFA announced last Tuesday its intention to establish a $20 billion subsidiary to oversee the World Cup and other tournaments under its supervision, with up to 20 percent of its shares to be offered to outside investors.

FIFA clarified that a company founded by Joshua Kushner, the brother of Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, is expected to lead the proposed group of investors for the project.

Trump maintains a close relationship with FIFA President Gianni Infantino, following the United States’ hosting of the FIFA World Cup this summer.