UEFA prepares criminal complaint against FIFA's Infantino

The UEFA is preparing a criminal complaint against FIFA president Gianni Infantino over his failed plan to sell a 20% stake in the commercial rights of the World Cup to private investors. The European body has filed requests in US courts to gather evidence, which it intends to use in a potential Swiss criminal case for "disloyal management" (article 158 of the Swiss Penal Code). Source: ABC Source: EFE via Infobae The plan, which involved investment firm Thrive Capital, was withdrawn on 1 August after widespread opposition. Source: ABC Source: El Español

The reaction

The UEFA and its 55 member federations had threatened to boycott FIFA competitions, but are expected to lift that threat at a meeting in Monaco on Thursday, after receiving guarantees that the plan will not be revived. Source: eldiado Source: Reuters via El Mundo However, the pressure on Infantino continues. The UEFA, along with the AFC and CONCACAF, are seeking an alternative candidate for the FIFA presidency, with CONCACAF president Victor Montagliani seen as a favoured option. Source: EFE via Infobae Italy's football federation (FIGC) has withdrawn its support for Infantino's re-election, joining England, Scotland, Denmark, and New Zealand. Source: EFE via Hoy Source: Excelsior

Support for Infantino

Despite the opposition, Infantino retains support from the CAF and CONMEBOL, and from several former players, including Cafú, Roberto Carlos, Javier Zanetti, and Fabio Cannavaro, who praised his record. Source: El Nacional Source: La Vanguardia The FIFA presidential election is scheduled for 18 March 2027, with Infantino currently the only declared candidate. Source: Infobae