FIFA leaders back Infantino after Rabat crisis meeting

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has received a public declaration of full support from the organization's senior management following a crisis meeting in Rabat, Morocco, on August 5, 2026. The meeting was convened amid an unprecedented internal and external revolt triggered by Infantino's now-abandoned plan to sell commercial stakes in the World Cup. While the leadership apologized for "errors" in handling the proposal, the backing failed to quell widespread calls for his resignation from major football confederations and prominent figures.

The controversy centers on a proposal to create a commercial subsidiary, FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), which would have managed rights for tournaments including the World Cup. The plan involved selling an approximately 20 percent stake to private investors, a move FIFA projected could raise billions and provide each of its 211 member associations with a significant one-time payment and increased funding. Instead, it sparked immediate and fierce opposition for its lack of transparency and consultation.

Faced with a furious backlash, Infantino formally withdrew the proposal on August 1. The reversal, however, amplified criticism of his...