Soccer Legend Figo Says Beleaguered Infantino Must Go
Qwenews.com – Soccer legend Figo says beleaguered FIFA President Gianni Infantino faces mounting pressure to step down as the organization convenes an emergency crisis meeting. The Portuguese football icon has publicly declared that the current leadership must go, following the dramatic reversal of FIFA’s ambitious $20 billion World Cup investment proposal. In a powerful op-ed obtained by CNN and first published by the Daily Mail, Figo described Infantino’s handling of the situation as “the lowest, most deceitful and cravenly self-interested behaviour I have ever witnessed.”
The former Real Madrid and Barcelona star, who enjoyed a glittering career spanning multiple decades, emphasized that the solution to FIFA’s current problems is straightforward. “The man who would do that – the man who would try to force through such major changes just to enrich himself and his friends – is a relic of the game’s past and should have no part in its future,” the Portuguese former player wrote. With his extensive experience as both a player and administrator, Figo brings considerable weight to his criticism of the current FIFA leadership.
The $20 Billion World Cup Investment Plan Under Fire
The soccer world has been plunged into turmoil following Infantino’s proposal to establish a separate entity that would include private investors to control the commercial and operational rights of the World Cup. The controversial plan sparked immediate backlash from fans, continental and national soccer governing bodies, and notably from European soccer body UEFA, which declared that “the soul and governance of football are not assets to trade.”
Even one of Infantino’s senior advisers, Carlos Cordeiro, resigned in protest last week. While the governing bodies representing Europe, Asia and North and Central America all criticized the proposal, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has not yet taken a definitive stance. Five of Africa’s most important soccer administrators have expressed their support for Infantino, according to Reuters, highlighting that African soccer remains more dependent on the money distributed by FIFA than other continents.
“Infantino has debased the office of FIFA President that he promised to elevate. He has lied, deceived and tried to feather his own nest at the expense of the game he is supposed to serve,” Figo wrote in his scathing assessment.
What FIFA Officials Are Saying
CNN is seeking comment from FIFA regarding these serious allegations. Infantino has not publicly addressed any allegations of corruption that have emerged alongside the investment plan controversy. FIFA previously stated that the money generated from the plan would be reinvested back into the sport, but critics argue this promise lacks substance.
Still, the plan is “not a good idea,” Figo wrote. “It’s not robust when you fail to be transparent about the crippling returns that private equity always seek.” He further explained: “It’s not bold when you fail to explain that once you have sold your share it is gone forever and you have disinherited your successors from ownership of the World Cup.”
Losing such widespread support marks a dramatic reversal of fortunes for Infantino who, just weeks ago, was overseeing the World Cup and had reportedly received pledged letters of support for his re-election bid from about 200 of the 211 member federations. The soccer legend Figo says beleaguered Infantino must now face the consequences of his controversial decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the FIFA crisis meeting about?
The crisis meeting addresses FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s controversial $20 billion World Cup investment plan, which proposed selling private stakes in the tournament. The plan faced widespread opposition before being scrapped, and FIFA officials are now reviewing the organization’s governance structure.
Who is Luis Figo and why does his opinion matter?
Luis Figo is a Portuguese football legend who won four La Liga titles, a Champions League trophy, and the Ballon d’Or during his career. As both a former player and FIFA administrator, his criticism carries significant weight in the football community.
What happens next for Infantino?
Infantino faces increasing pressure to address corruption allegations and explain his handling of the investment plan. His re-election bid, which previously had support from approximately 200 federations, now faces uncertainty as the crisis unfolds.
CNN’s Christina MacFarlane, Pallabi Munsi and Patrick Sung Cuadrado contributed reporting to this story.
