US President Donald Trump has backed FIFA president Gianni Infantino, saying it would be a “terrible mistake” for FIFA to consider replacing him.
Trump made the remarks on Monday, August 10, in a post on Truth Social. The comments were reported on Tuesday, August 11, from Washington.
Infantino is facing renewed criticism after UEFA, CONCACAF and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) accused him of breaking trust through his handling of a plan to bring private investment into FIFA competitions, including the World Cup.
Infantino later withdrew the plan following strong criticism. UEFA had also threatened to boycott World Cups if the proposal went ahead.
Trump defended Infantino, describing him as “fantastic” and saying he had overseen what Trump called the most successful World Cup ever. Trump also attended the World Cup final with Infantino last month.
The US president’s support is at odds with US Soccer, which has joined those criticising the FIFA president.
Infantino, 56, has led FIFA for 10 years and is due to seek a fourth and final term at the FIFA Congress in March 2027. Candidates must be declared by November 18.
CONCACAF president Victor Montagliani is viewed as a possible challenger. Infantino has also received support from the Confederation of African Football, while South American football’s governing body CONMEBOL is described as largely supportive.
The dispute is significant for world football because it involves the future leadership of FIFA, the sport’s global governing body, and how major competitions such as the World Cup are managed.
